Photo Source: ANI
Supreme Court orders UPSC to let blind candidates change scribes up to 7 days before exam
Babushahi Bureau
New Delhi, December 4, 2025: In a major step toward inclusive and accessible examinations, the Supreme Court has directed the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) to permit blind candidates to change their scribes up to at least seven days before the Civil Services Examination.
The court also instructed the UPSC to introduce screen reader software and other assistive technologies to ensure equal opportunity for candidates with visual disabilities.
The bench observed that a truly just society is measured not only by the freedoms it grants but by the opportunities it guarantees to all citizens to achieve their full potential.
Emphasising accessibility as a constitutional right, the court issued comprehensive directions to strengthen protections for Persons with Disabilities (PwD) during the examination process.
The apex court also ordered the formulation of standardised, uniform guidelines for the use of screen readers and other assistive tools. These protocols must ensure accessibility, security, and consistency across all examination centres.
The UPSC has been asked to frame these guidelines in consultation with the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities and the National Institute for the Empowerment of Persons with Visual Disabilities.