“Thousands of BPSC Aspirants Protest in Patna Over Alleged Irregularities in 70th Preliminary Exam”
Thousands of aspirants for the Bihar Public Service Commission (BPSC) examinations gathered in a massive protest at Gandhi Maidan, Patna, demanding a re-examination of the 70th BPSC Preliminary Exam. The unrest stems from allegations of irregularities, including question paper leaks, surrounding the exam conducted on December 13. The protest has gained significant traction, drawing attention from activists, political leaders, and educationalists.
Protestors, determined to meet Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar to resolve the matter, broke through two police barricades near JP Golambar. Their attempt to march towards Dak Bungalow via Fraser Road prompted a forceful response from law enforcement. The police deployed lathi charges and water cannons to disperse the swelling crowds, creating a tense standoff in the heart of the city. Heavy security arrangements, including barricades near Hotel Maurya, were set up to contain the protestors, reflecting the gravity of the situation.
Prominent political leader and Jan Suraaj Party founder Prashant Kishor extended his support to the protestors, adding weight to their demands. Speaking directly to the students at Gandhi Maidan, Kishor highlighted the recurring issue of corruption in competitive examinations in Bihar. He described the pattern of irregularities and paper leaks as unacceptable, urging systemic reforms to restore the credibility of these exams. Kishor proposed organizing a “Chatra Sansad” (students’ congregation) near Mahatma Gandhi’s statue at Gandhi Maidan to facilitate discussions and find solutions.
However, the Patna District Administration has rejected this plan, citing Gandhi Maidan as a restricted area. Patna District Magistrate Chandrasekhar Singh issued a stern warning, stating that strict action would be taken against coaching institutes found involved in fueling the protests. Security forces have been strategically positioned around Gandhi Maidan to prevent any further escalation, with the administration pledging to enforce the law strictly.
The protests, now ongoing for more than a week, underline the deep frustration among BPSC aspirants over what they perceive as systemic issues in the examination process. The unrest has become a rallying point for those demanding a transparent and fair evaluation system, particularly in a state grappling with the challenge of ensuring integrity in competitive exams.
As the calls for reform grow louder, the movement has garnered widespread attention. Students, backed by public figures and concerned citizens, are amplifying their demands for accountability and justice. The escalating situation in Patna highlights the need for a thorough investigation into the allegations surrounding the 70th BPSC Preliminary Exam and swift action to address the grievances of aspirants. This ongoing issue has the potential to influence the broader discourse on systemic reforms in competitive examinations across the state.
