UPSC to Offer Screen Reader Facility for Visually Impaired Aspirants in CSE

Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) told the Supreme Court that it has agreed in principle to introduce screen reader software for visually impaired candidates in its exams. UPSC said that once the right software, infrastructure, and security checks are ready at all exam centers, the screen reader facility will be provided to visually impaired candidates during the exams.

Case Heard by Supreme Court Overview

The case was heard by a Supreme Court bench of Justices Vikram Nath and Sandeep Mehta. It came after a petition filed by Mission Accessibility, through advocate Sanchita Ain, which raised concerns about the lack of support for candidates with blindness or low vision in UPSC exams.

During the hearing, the petitioner’s lawyer requested the court to direct UPSC to complete the process quickly, ideally before the next exam cycle. He also suggested that consultations should be held to discuss technical aspects like accessible question papers, diagrams, and regional language support.

UPSC’s Reply and Supreme Court’s Observation

The bench said that it is up to UPSC to decide whether to hold consultations or not, since the Commission knows how it prepares its question papers and can decide the best way to make them screen-reader friendly. The court then reserved its order on the matter.

In its affidavit, UPSC explained that it does not have its own exam infrastructure and depends on state governments, district officials, and educational institutions to conduct its exams. To make the new facility available, UPSC has written to district collectors and magistrates across India to set up screen reader software at the earliest.

UPSC Seeks Support from States and Disability Department

UPSC has also requested the chief secretaries of all states to ensure quick action by local authorities. Additionally, the Commission has written to the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD) to explore using the computer labs of NIEPVD and its nine regional centers for exams of visually impaired candidates.

The DEPwD responded positively, saying they are ready to upgrade their centers to serve as special exam venues. However, they clarified that UPSC will be responsible for providing the software, preparing accessible question papers, and ensuring exam security.

No Change Needed in Exam Rules

UPSC said it is carefully studying the ideas shared by the Disability Department to find the best and safest way to provide screen reader help for visually impaired candidates. It also said that, as per the Central Government, there is no need to change the Civil Services Exam Rules for this.