UPSC prelims 2026: 27 questions are now before a tribunal, hearing on 8 October

Answers to 27 questions from the UPSC Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination 2026 have been challenged before the Central Administrative Tribunal. The candidates argue that the answers in the provisional key were incorrect, or that more than one option was right. The next hearing is on 8 October 2026.

The petitions

• One petition, by four candidates, challenges eight questions.
• A second, by 63 aspirants, challenges 27 questions, including those eight.
• The disputed questions span both General Studies and the aptitude paper. They include questions on Grand Slam tennis tournaments, the zero-FIR procedure under the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023, and at least four on agriculture and well irrigation in the Rigvedic period.

Why it matters

The prelims were held on 24 May and UPSC published its provisional answer key three days later. The mains have since been held, in August. Several petitioners say they missed the mains cut-off by a few marks; for someone on a last attempt, a single disputed question can decide whether they ever get another chance.

What to keep in mind

A tribunal challenge is not a result. The matter is pending, and no marks have been changed. If you were close to the cut-off, keep your response sheet and your own record of answers safe, follow the 8 October hearing, and keep preparing for the next cycle as if nothing will change.

CareerBox News Desk — reporting on petitions pending before the Central Administrative Tribunal on the UPSC Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination 2026. Official portal: upsc.gov.in. Dates and eligibility change; confirm them on the official portal before you act.