The Lathi-Charge On BPSC Protesters in Bihar has sparked a political storm, with opposition leaders Arvind Kejriwal and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra condemning the police action against students protesting alleged irregularities in the Integrated Combined Preliminary Competitive Examination (CCE) 2024.
Protests Erupt Over BPSC Exam Allegations
The protests stemmed from allegations of a paper leak in the 70th BPSC prelims. Aspirants demanded the cancellation of the examination and a re-conduct to ensure fairness. However, the protests escalated when police used lathis and water cannons to disperse demonstrators at Gandhi Maidan in Patna on Sunday night.
Arvind Kejriwal, leader of the Aam Aadmi Party, criticized the BJP-JD(U) government in Bihar, stating, “Lathicharge on peacefully protesting students is a direct attack against democracy. Students are the future of the country; listen to their voice instead of suppressing it.”
Priyanka Gandhi Denounces “Inhumane” Actions
Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra condemned the use of water cannons and lathis against student protesters in harsh winter conditions. She referred to the BJP-led “double-engine government” as a symbol of “double atrocities on youth.”
Taking to X, Gandhi wrote, “Water cannons and lathi-charges on youth in this harsh cold are inhumane.” She emphasized that such actions further alienate the younger generation, whose concerns should be addressed rather than suppressed.
Prashant Kishor And The Jan Suraaj Party Join Protests
Jan Suraaj Party founder Prashant Kishor also joined the protests, accusing the Bihar government of turning democracy into “lathi-tantra.” Supporting the students’ right to protest, Kishor said public spaces must remain open for democratic expressions of dissent.
The Patna Administration, however, denied permission for Kishor’s Chhatra Sansad event and accused him of creating a law and order issue at Gandhi Maidan. Following the events, an FIR was lodged against 600-700 people, including Kishor, for unauthorized gatherings and instigating unrest.
Patna Administration’s Statement On The Incident
In its official statement, the Patna Administration defended the use of force, citing disruptions caused by the protest. “Despite repeated requests, these people violated guidelines and disrupted public order. The administration had to remove them using water cannons and force,” the statement read.
The administration added that the protesters damaged public property, including loudspeakers installed by the authorities.
Political Repercussions Of The Incident
The police action has drawn widespread criticism from opposition leaders and student organizations, with calls for an independent inquiry into the incident. The debate over the government’s response has also sparked discussions about the treatment of youth and democratic dissent in India.
Kejriwal labeled the incident as a sign of governmental “weakness and insensitivity,” urging the ruling coalition to address students’ grievances rather than resorting to suppression.
Students Demand Fair Examination Process
The protesting aspirants have been steadfast in their demand for the cancellation of the alleged compromised examination. They argue that fairness in Public Service Commission exams is vital to maintaining trust in the recruitment process.
Several student leaders emphasized the importance of transparency in examination systems, urging authorities to adopt stronger measures against paper leaks and irregularities.
Broader Implications For Democratic Protests
The lathi-charge incident has reignited concerns about the shrinking space for peaceful protests in India. Critics argue that the government’s approach to handling dissent reflects a larger trend of undermining democratic values.
Priyanka Gandhi and Arvind Kejriwal’s strong reactions underscore the opposition’s growing concern over the treatment of youth and their rights in the country. With assembly elections in Bihar approaching, the incident could influence public sentiment and voter behavior.
As the controversy unfolds, the demand for accountability and justice remains central to the protesters’ cause. The response from the Bihar government and the BPSC will likely determine the future course of action for both the students and political leaders supporting them.