Bihar Civil Service Aspirants in Patna have been vocal in their demand for a re-examination of the 70th BPSC preliminary exams. The protest, which has intensified over the past week, has seen thousands of candidates from across the state converge at Gandhi Maidan. The aspirants are seeking the cancellation of the exam, citing allegations of irregularities and a paper leak. The protest reached a boiling point on Sunday, as police used mild force to disperse the crowd, lathi-charging and using water cannons to break up the demonstration.
Protests Escalate at Gandhi Maidan
The demonstrators are firm in their stance, demanding that Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar address their grievances and discuss the future of the examination. To make their voices heard, the protestors broke through two police barricades near JP Golambar, clashing with security forces. A minor scuffle also broke out at Gandhi Maidan as the protestors attempted to march towards Dak Bungalow via Fraser Road. In response, the police lathi-charged the crowd, pushing the aspirants back while keeping a heavy security presence around Hotel Maurya and other key areas.
The protests, which began in the wake of the preliminary exam on December 13, have gained significant momentum. Along with the thousands of protesting aspirants, the movement has also attracted support from political figures and educationalists. Notably, Prashant Kishor, founder of the Jan Suraaj Party, has publicly supported the cause, criticizing the systemic corruption in Bihar’s examination processes. Kishor condemned the pattern of paper leaks and other irregularities, asserting that these practices must end. He called for an inclusive discussion on the issue, organizing a ‘Chatra Sansad’ (student parliament) near the statue of Mahatma Gandhi at Gandhi Maidan.
Prashant Kishor Supports Bihar Civil Service Aspirants
Prashant Kishor’s backing has only amplified the reach of the protest. In his statement, Kishor highlighted that paper leaks have become commonplace in BPSC exams, and he emphasized the urgent need for reform. He stressed that the current state of affairs cannot continue and that a viable solution must be found for the future of Bihar’s civil service examinations. He also urged for the voices of the students to be heard, expressing solidarity with their demand for a re-examination.
District Administration’s Firm Response
In contrast to the growing support for the protestors, Patna District Magistrate (DM) Chandrasekhar Singh issued a stern warning to the demonstrators. He emphasized that no student gatherings would be allowed at Gandhi Maidan, a restricted area, and promised strict action against anyone attempting to disrupt the law. Singh also mentioned that any coaching institute owners found to be involved in the protests would face consequences. He reiterated that adequate security measures were in place to maintain order and prevent any escalation of violence.
The protestors, despite the crackdown, remain resolute. They continue to demand the cancellation of the 70th Integrated Combined Competitive (Preliminary) Examination (CCE) 2024 and a re-examination due to allegations of a question paper leak. The unrest surrounding the BPSC exams is a reflection of broader concerns regarding transparency and fairness in the recruitment process in Bihar. The outcome of this protest could have long-lasting implications for the future of civil service exams in the state.