TNPSC Group II & IIA Main Exam 2026 Postponed After Technical Glitch

The Tamil Nadu Public Service Commission (TNPSC) has postponed the Group II and Group IIA main examinations originally scheduled on 8 February 2026 nationwide due to a technical glitch that caused widespread confusion in exam centre allocation, particularly in Chennai and other cities. Officials confirmed that the glitch in the hall ticket generation process led to errors in listing candidates’ examination centres, prompting protests from aspirants.

What Happened at the Exam Centres?

On the morning of 8 February, candidates arrived at examination venues only to find that their names or roll numbers were missing from attendance lists, with several test centres — including those in Arumbakkam and Nandanam, Chennai — showing conflicting information about hall assignments. Due to these discrepancies, hundreds of aspirants were unable to sit for the test, leading to protests outside centres. TNPSC officials later acknowledged that the problem stemmed from a technical error in hall ticket generation and allocation software, which caused some applicants to be assigned to incorrect or overcrowded venues. To ensure fairness and minimise further disruption, the commission decided to cancel the main examinations across the state. (

Re-Exam and Rescheduling Details

According to TNPSC’s official announcement, the examination controller has assured candidates that a fresh date for the Group II and Group IIA mains will be communicated well in advance, with hall tickets to be re-issued after the revision. Authorities have stated that candidates will be informed about the rescheduled dates, new exam centres, and hall ticket details via SMS and email, allowing at least 15 days’ notice before the re-exam. Subsequently, the TNPSC has rescheduled the Group II and IIA main papers to 15 March 2026, with hall tickets expected to be released by 28 February 2026 for candidates to download using their One Time Registration (OTR) credentials.

Official Statements and Next Steps

TNPSC Controller of Examinations A. Shanmuga Sundaram explained that the glitch occurred during the hall ticket generation process, affecting the QR codes and centre details required for smooth entry into exam halls. The commission is currently examining the issue to prevent similar errors in future recruitment examinations and has asked aspirants to verify their details carefully once hall tickets are re-issued. Despite the postponement, TNPSC confirmed that the Group II mains examination scheduled for 22 February 2026 will proceed as planned, and candidates should prepare accordingly.

Candidate Reaction and Wider Impact

The cancellation has drawn significant criticism from aspirants and political figures, with opposition leaders describing the situation as an administrative lapse that disrupted the efforts of thousands who had prepared extensively for the exam. Discussions continue around the need for improved coordination and technical readiness in conducting large-scale recruitment tests. Candidates are advised to keep checking the official TNPSC website and registered communication channels for updates on the revised schedule, revised hall ticket issuance, and other related notifications