Introduction

On September 12, 2025, the SSC Combined Graduate Level (CGL) Tier 1 examination faced disruptions at multiple centres in Delhi, Gurgaon, and Jammu due to administrative and technical failures. The cancellations have forced the Staff Selection Commission (SSC) to reschedule exams, affecting thousands of aspirants.

Background

The SSC CGL exam is one of India’s most competitive recruitment processes, attracting lakhs of aspirants nationwide. Any disruption in its conduct significantly impacts candidates’ preparation, travel, and psychological readiness.

What Happened & Centres Affected

• Delhi: Bharti Vidya Niketan Public School.

• Gurgaon: M.M. Public School (where over 1,400 candidates across three shifts were affected).

• Jammu: Digital Computer Education centre (first shift disrupted).

• Cause: Server crashes, outdated infrastructure, and mismanagement.

Rescheduling & Candidate Instructions

• Delhi & Gurgaon candidates: Re-exam on September 24, 25, or 26, 2025.

• Jammu candidates: Re-exam on September 26, 2025.

• New centres in NCR will be allotted within ~10 days to avoid repeat issues.

Candidate Concerns & Responses

• Many candidates travelled long distances, only to learn of last-minute cancellations.

• In Gurgaon, chaos erupted outside M.M. Public School as frustrated candidates protested over poor communication and infrastructure lapses.

• Aspirants cited logistical issues (travel, accommodation) and stress due to sudden changes.

Official Response

• SSC Chairman S. Gopalakrishnan admitted that while ~215 centres functioned smoothly, around a dozen centres suffered major disruptions.

• He attributed the failures to outdated servers, weak networks, and poor centre management.

• Assurance given: affected candidates will be accommodated in new centres with improved facilities.

Current Situation

• Exams at most centres remain unaffected.

• Affected candidates must prepare for re-exams later in September.

• SSC faces criticism for poor planning, inadequate infrastructure checks, and lack of timely updates.

Conclusion

The cancellation of SSC CGL Tier 1 exams at key centres has highlighted persistent problems in exam infrastructure management. While SSC has promised corrective measures and rescheduling, the incident underscores the urgent need for better oversight and technical preparedness to safeguard candidates’ time, effort, and morale.