Hathras PET Candidates Undergo AI Checks, Hair-Bun And Shoe Searches

Strict security checks were carried out during the Preliminary Eligibility Test (PET) in Hathras on Sunday, with candidates undergoing biometric verification using AI technology before being allowed to enter the examination centres. Female candidates were asked to open their hair buns for checking, while male candidates had to remove their shoes and socks during the security search.

The PET is being conducted in two shifts at 16 examination centres set up across the city. A large number of candidates began reaching the centres from 7:30 am, while the entry process started at 8 am. The authorities have made tight security arrangements to ensure that the examination is conducted without cheating and in a transparent manner.

Candidates first underwent biometric verification with the help of AI technology. They were allowed to enter the examination centres only after completing a three-tier checking process. Security personnel carried out detailed searches at the entry points, and the examination-related rules were strictly enforced.

Candidates were not allowed to carry any material other than a pen, Aadhaar card, admit card and money. During the checking, female candidates were asked to open the buns made in their hair so that they could also be inspected. Male candidates were asked to remove their shoes and socks before the search was conducted. Entry was permitted only after both the security check and the verification process had been completed.

The examination is being held in two shifts across the district. A total of 6,576 candidates are registered for each shift. In view of the large number of candidates arriving at the centres, arrangements have been made by the administration. Police personnel and the officials concerned remained deployed at the examination centres.

According to administrative officials, the security arrangements have been kept strong so that the examination can be completed peacefully. Officials at different levels are also inspecting the examination centres and monitoring the arrangements.

The railway also operated an examination special train for the convenience of the candidates. However, the train reached Hathras at 8:05 am, around 45 minutes later than its scheduled time. Since only a small number of candidates knew about the operation of the train, the number of examinees who travelled to Hathras on it remained low.

A large number of candidates from other districts also reached Hathras to appear for the examination. Those who came from distant districts said they faced considerable difficulty during the journey because of the distance of their examination centres.

Candidates from Raebareli and Fatehpur shared their problems over the centres being allotted far from their homes. Priya Tiwari, who arrived from Fatehpur to appear for the examination, said that her examination centre was located more than 500 kilometres away.

Priya Tiwari said that the worry of covering such a long distance, along with the difficulties of travelling, increased the mental pressure even before the examination began. She demanded that the government allot examination centres near the candidates’ homes or in nearby districts so that they do not have to face unnecessary problems.

Amrish Kumar Shukla reached Hathras from Raebareli to accompany his wife for the examination. He also spoke about the long distance and the expenses involved in travelling. He said that around 2,500 rupees had already been spent to reach Hathras. Apart from the time and money spent on the journey, he said they also had to face separate difficulties while travelling.

The administration is focused on conducting the PET in a safe and organised manner, while candidates from distant districts have raised the demand for examination centres to be located closer to their homes. They said that nearby centres would reduce travel expenses and difficulties and would allow candidates to take the examination without additional mental pressure.