Chandigarh: In a move that has left hundreds of aspirants in the lurch, the Punjab Health Systems Corporation (PHSC) has abruptly canceled the recruitment process for the post of psychologists. The cancellation comes at a stage when the candidates had already cleared the written examination and completed the document verification process, sparking widespread frustration and resentment.

Recruitment Process Scrapped at Final Stage

The recruitment drive, which aimed to fill vacancies for psychologists across the state’s health institutions, has been declared null and void. The decision has come as a shock to candidates who were awaiting their final appointment letters.

According to the aspirants, the process was in its final leg. The written test had been successfully conducted, and the merit list was prepared. Following this, the shortlisted candidates were called for document verification—a step that usually signals the impending release of joining letters.

“Administrative Reasons” Cited

While the exact cause for this sudden U-turn remains opaque, official notices typically cite “administrative reasons” for such cancellations. However, this offers little solace to the candidates who have spent months preparing for the exam and undergoing the selection rigor.

The cancellation notice has raised serious questions about the planning and execution of government recruitment drives in the state.

Candidates Left in Limbo

The aspirants have expressed deep anguish over the decision. Many have pointed out the irony of the situation:

• Wasted Resources: Candidates spent significant time and money on coaching, travel, and application fees.
• Mental Harassment: The abrupt cancellation after reaching the final stage has caused immense mental stress to the applicants.
• Lack of Transparency: The absence of a clear, detailed explanation from the authorities has fueled speculation and mistrust.

Demands for Reinstatement

A section of the affected candidates is reportedly planning to approach higher authorities to demand the reinstatement of the recruitment process. They argue that canceling the drive after the verification stage is unfair and violates their rights to fair opportunity.

Impact on State’s Mental Health Infrastructure

This cancellation is also seen as a setback for Punjab’s healthcare infrastructure. With the state government emphasizing the importance of mental health and de-addiction centers (as highlighted in recent “War Against Drugs” initiatives), the vacancy of psychologist posts hinders the effective delivery of these critical services.

As of now, the PHSC has not announced a fresh schedule or a refund mechanism for the application fees. Candidates are advised to keep a close watch on the official PHSC website for further updates.