UPSC NDA-CDS Exam: Nashik Candidates Denied Entry Over Late Arrival; Collector Cites Strict Rules

Chaos erupted at a UPSC NDA and CDS examination centre in Nashik on September 13 when several candidates were denied entry for arriving after the stipulated reporting time. Candidates blamed traffic congestion and poor road conditions for their delay, with some claiming they reached only seconds late. The situation prompted police deployment to manage crowds of agitated students and parents outside the venue.

District Collector Ayush Prasad defended the strict enforcement, stating that UPSC examination rules are centrally controlled and must be followed rigidly, similar to election protocols. He said the local administration has no authority to override these guidelines once entry gates close and denied that gates were shut before the prescribed time. The incident has renewed focus on examination-centre management and logistics during competitive exams.