50th BCS Preliminary Exam Set for Jan 30; PSC Issues Strict Guidelines

The 50th Bangladesh Civil Service (BCS) preliminary examination is scheduled to take place nationwide on Friday, January 30. The two-hour exam will be held simultaneously across eight divisional cities, including Dhaka, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM.

The Bangladesh Public Service Commission (PSC) issued two separate notices on Tuesday (January 13), confirming the date and outlining a set of stringent instructions for candidates to ensure a fair and disciplined testing environment.

Mandatory Early Entry

According to a directive signed by Masuma Afreen, PSC Controller of Examinations (Cadre), seat plans have been arranged using a randomized system. Consequently, candidates may need extra time to locate their assigned rooms.

• Deadline for Entry: All candidates must enter their respective exam halls by 9:30 AM (30 minutes before the start).
• No Late Entry: The PSC explicitly stated that no candidate will be allowed to enter the hall after 9:30 AM.

Prohibited Items and Security Measures

To prevent any untoward incidents or malpractice, the PSC has imposed a total ban on the following items inside the exam centers:

• Electronics: All types of watches (analog or digital), mobile phones, calculators, and any electronic devices.
• Personal Belongings: Books, bags, wallets, credit card-like devices, jewelry, and bracelets.

The commission announced that candidates will undergo thorough searches via metal detectors at the gates in the presence of Executive Magistrates and police personnel.

Furthermore, candidates must keep their ears uncovered during the exam; those requiring hearing aids must obtain prior permission from the Commission.

Severe Penalties for Violations

The PSC warned that the discovery of any prohibited items will lead to the immediate cancellation of candidacy.

Under the Bangladesh Civil Service Rules 2014 and the Bangladesh Public Service Commission Act 2023, violators may be debarred from all future recruitment exams and face various terms of imprisonment or fines.

Candidates will receive these instructions shortly via SMS.

The PSC also noted that the attendance list for this session has been organized based on even-odd registration numbers and random selection to further ensure transparency.