Bhopal June 21, 2026

In a significant relief for persons with disabilities, the Office of the Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities in Madhya Pradesh has directed Apex Bank to reopen its recruitment application portal exclusively for eligible disabled candidates for three days. The order was issued after a hearing in Bhopal on a complaint that several applicants could not apply due to the recruitment advertisement and application process adopted by the bank. The hearing was conducted through video conferencing and e-district facilities.

The matter came up before Disability Commissioner Dr Ajay Khempuria during a hearing in a case filed by the Madhyanchal Badhir Sangh, Bhopal. The complainants alleged that the recruitment process for district cooperative central banks and Apex Bank had made it difficult for eligible disabled candidates to submit applications within the prescribed time.

During the proceedings, the Commissioner examined the recruitment notification and sought a response from the bank. The issue centred on the recruitment examination for seven categories of posts. According to the complaint, a separate advertisement had not been issued for candidates belonging to the disability category, resulting in confusion among prospective applicants.

 Representatives of the bank submitted their written response and presented their position during the hearing. Applicant Mahesh Dore also participated in the proceedings and was allowed to join virtually through the e-district platform. He challenged the bank's interpretation of the recruitment rules and argued that the process should be made more accessible for disabled candidates.

After hearing both sides, the Commissioner observed that recruitment agencies must follow the procedures laid down by the state government for reservation and participation of persons with disabilities. The order directed Apex Bank to reopen the application portal for three days exclusively for disabled candidates and allow fresh applications under the prescribed norms.

The case highlights the continuing focus on ensuring equal access to employment opportunities for persons with disabilities in government-linked institutions. It also underlines the role of statutory bodies in monitoring the implementation of provisions under the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, and related state rules.

Officials associated with the proceedings said the decision could help eligible candidates who were unable to apply earlier due to procedural issues. The hearing was conducted through the e-district platform, which enabled participation from different locations without requiring physical presence.

The order has now been communicated to the concerned authorities for compliance. Copies of the directions have been forwarded to Apex Bank management, the Social Justice and Disabled Welfare Department, and other relevant officials for further action and implementation of the Commissioner's instructions.