Key Facts
The Uttar Pradesh Police Recruitment and Promotion Board (UPPRPB) conducted the written examination for 32,679 constable posts from June 8 to 10, 2026. Over 28.86 lakh candidates registered, and 21.92 lakh appeared at 1,183 centres across 75 districts. Lucknow alone hosted 1.35 lakh candidates.
Stories of Desperation and Hope
At Charbagh railway station in Lucknow, thousands of aspirants like Vishal Maurya (22) from Ambedkar Nagar district traveled long distances. Maurya, a first-generation learner and part-time construction labourer, dreams of lifting his family from poverty. 'This is an opportunity for people like us to change our lives,' he said.
Vaibhav Chaudhary (24), a B.Tech graduate from Gorakhpur, works as a gig worker. He turned down a ₹20,000 IT job in Noida, citing poor pay. 'A constable’s job provides security and benefits,' he noted. Pushpesh Kumar (21), a BA English Literature student, took online coaching for the exam, saying, 'There are hardly any job opportunities for English graduates.'
Examination and Selection Process
The written test comprised 150 objective questions (300 marks) covering General Studies, Hindi, Numerical Ability, and Reasoning. Shortlisted candidates will undergo Physical Standard Test (PST): minimum height 168 cm for men (general/OBC) and 152 cm for women, with chest requirements for men. The Physical Efficiency Test (PET) requires men to run 4.8 km in 25 minutes and women 2.4 km in 14 minutes.
Impact and Criticism
Former DGP Vibhuti Narain Rai highlighted that government jobs offer lifelong security, while private sector jobs are unstable and poorly paid. Critics like SP spokesperson Udai Veer Singh called the rush a 'marker of many crises,' accusing the BJP government of failing to generate employment. The board took action against Telegram and Instagram accounts for fake paper leaks.
What Readers Should Know
- Over 80 candidates compete for each constable post.
- Many aspirants are graduates or postgraduates, reflecting a mismatch between education and job availability.
- The exam highlights the broader employment crisis in Uttar Pradesh and India.
FAQ
How many candidates applied for the U.P. Police Constable Exam 2026?
Over 28.86 lakh candidates applied for 32,679 posts, with 21.92 lakh appearing for the written test.
What is the selection process for U.P. Police Constable?
The selection includes a written test, Physical Standard Test (PST), and Physical Efficiency Test (PET). Candidates must meet height, chest, and running criteria.
What is the salary of a U.P. Police Constable?
A new constable earns approximately ₹21,700 per month, along with government benefits like medical insurance and gratuity.
Source: www.thehindu.com