
Hundreds of unemployed youth gathered in Hyderabad on Monday, demanding that the state government expedite recruitment for 19,000 police posts. The demonstration, which took place in the city centre, saw participants carrying placards and raising slogans against the delay in filling vacancies.
The protesters argue that the prolonged wait for recruitment has left many qualified candidates in limbo, with several having completed their education years ago. They urged the authorities to release a clear schedule for the recruitment process, including written tests and physical measurements.
The primary demand is the immediate issuance of a notification for the 19,000 police constable and sub-inspector posts. Many protesters said they have been preparing for these exams for years, sacrificing other opportunities.
Some protesters also called for an increase in the upper age limit, citing the long gap since the last major police recruitment drive. They warned of prolonged agitation if their demands are not met.
The last significant police recruitment in Telangana was held several years ago, and since then, thousands of vacancies have accumulated. The state government had earlier announced plans to fill these posts, but the process has been stalled, leading to frustration among job seekers.
Officials have not yet confirmed the reasons for the delay, though administrative hurdles and pending approvals are believed to be contributing factors. A senior police officer, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the department is aware of the vacancies and is working on a proposal to send to the government.
The unemployment rate in Telangana has been a concern, with many educated youth struggling to find stable jobs. Police jobs are seen as a secure career option, attracting a large number of applicants from across the state.
One protester, who identified himself as a degree holder from Warangal, said he has been preparing for police exams for the past five years. "We are not asking for favours, only a fair chance to compete," he said. Another demonstrator, a woman from Nizamabad, said the delay has forced many to take up low-paying private jobs while still hoping for a government position.
So far, there has been no official statement from the state government or the police department regarding the protest. However, sources suggest that the matter is being discussed at higher levels, and an announcement may be made in the coming weeks.
The protesters have said they will continue their agitation until a concrete assurance is given. They have also planned to hold a larger rally if the government fails to respond.
As the demand for recruitment grows louder, the onus is on the state administration to address the concerns of thousands of young aspirants. A clear timeline for the recruitment process would not only ease the anxiety of the protesters but also help restore confidence in the system.
All eyes are now on the state secretariat for any official announcement regarding the 19,000 police posts.