Traders' associations call off ‘No UPI Day’ protest on 2 October after assurance from Finance Minister Sitharaman

On September 30, 2026, MPSC aspirants agreed to suspend their October 2 protest following a meeting with Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. The state government pledged to address several of their demands, including an inquiry into current and former Commission office-bearers, the immediate transfer of the MPSC Secretary, the continuation of offline examinations, and the recruitment of large numbers for vacant government positions.

Nitin Andhale, a student representative, described the meeting as "positive" and said the delegation unanimously decided to suspend the protest following the assurances. The government clarified that the MPSC Chairperson holds a constitutional position and cannot be removed by the state government or governor, stating a judicial inquiry would be completed within three months, with further action based on its findings.

The MPSC Secretary was assured to be transferred immediately, and offline exams would continue without changes without discussions with student stakeholders. The state plans to fill a large number of vacancies across departments after revising recruitment rules, which have not been updated since 1960, and around 30,000 to 40,000 promotions are pending.

A "single card" system will be introduced, allowing candidates to appear for multiple recruitment exams at a lower cost and eliminating the need to submit the same documents repeatedly. The government also assured advance recruitment planning, with vacancies expected over the next three years announced together, and a complete program to be prepared within a month.

The Chief Minister's assurances on student issues will continue through further discussions. The aspirants had planned to hold their protest on October 2 over demands concerning MPSC recruitment, examination procedures, and accountability within the Commission.