Chennai: A question in the recent TNPSC Group 2A exam, perceived as praising the Chief Minister, has sparked criticism from various quarters.

Securing a government job is a dream for many, with lakhs of aspirants preparing rigorously for TNPSC exams that assess their intelligence and aptitude. However, a particular question in yesterday's exam has drawn sharp reactions.

The question reportedly asked candidates to identify the Tamil Nadu government scheme that led people to refer to the Chief Minister as “mother.” The multiple-choice options included the school breakfast scheme, the dawn itinerary, the "Are You Well?" initiative, the "Chief Minister with the People" program, and "I don't know the answer."

This has led to backlash, with critics arguing that TNPSC exams should test a candidate's knowledge and reasoning rather than appear politically motivated. Academics have particularly questioned the relevance of such a question, suggesting it might have been included to appease the government.

"Competitive exams should evaluate intelligence and aptitude, not serve as a means of flattery. There is no justification for such a question, and such instances should be avoided in the future," experts opined.

The controversy has put TNPSC under scrutiny, with many calling for greater objectivity in the framing of exam questions.