BPSC Exam Controversy: Bihar Bandh Called as Protests Escalate, Students Gain Political Support

In Bihar's capital Patna students' Anger Peaks Amid Allegations of BPSC Paper Leak, Police Action Intensifies Protests

The ongoing controversy surrounding the 70th Bihar Public Service Commission (BPSC) Preliminary Examination has reached a boiling point, with students calling for a statewide bandh and road blockade on Monday. The protest, fueled by allegations of a question paper leak and malpractices, has garnered significant political backing, including support from CPI-ML and Jan Suraaj.

The students’ demand for the cancellation of the December 13 exam remains unmet, with the BPSC standing firm against it. The situation escalated on Sunday when Patna police used water cannons and mild force to disperse protestors at Gandhi Maidan, further aggravating tensions.

CPI-ML and Opposition Rally Behind BPSC Protestors

The CPI-ML has openly endorsed the bandh and road blockade, with its leaders urging the government to cancel the examination and re-conduct it. CPI-ML MLA Sandeep Saurabh has written to Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, emphasizing the need for transparency and fairness in recruitment exams. Party leaders also criticized the government for its "repressive approach" and expressed solidarity with the students.

Jan Suraaj founder Prashant Kishor joined the protests at Gandhi Maidan, accusing the state administration of ignoring the youth's grievances. Kishor criticized Chief Minister Nitish Kumar for prioritizing a private trip to New Delhi over addressing the crisis. He proposed that students initiate a relay fast as a peaceful protest strategy.

Tensions Mount Amid Bihar Police Action

Following Kishor’s departure on Sunday evening, students attempted to march toward the Chief Minister’s residence, leading to clashes with the police. District Magistrate Chandrashekhar Singh confirmed that water cannons and mild force were used to manage the situation. An FIR was registered against Prashant Kishor, his associates, and hundreds of unnamed protestors for defying administrative warnings and organizing an unauthorized gathering.

Allegations and Demands

The protestors are demanding the cancellation of the 70th BPSC preliminary exam, alleging that questions were identical to model papers from coaching institutes. They argue that conducting a re-exam at just one center, as planned by BPSC for January 4, 2025, is unfair and undermines the principle of a level playing field.

The BPSC has refuted allegations of irregularities and reiterated its decision to hold the re-exam for 12,000 candidates from Bapu Examination Complex. The commission has also dismissed demands for implementing a normalization process.

Political and Public Support

The protests have drawn support from various political groups, including the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), Congress, and CPI(M-L). Activists and educationalists have also raised concerns about the state of recruitment exams in Bihar, calling for systemic reforms to ensure transparency and fairness.

As the bandh unfolds, public transport and essential services may face disruptions. While hospitals and emergency services are expected to function, the impact on other sectors remains uncertain.

The Bihar government has assured that a dialogue with the protestors is possible, with the Chief Secretary agreeing to meet a five-member delegation. However, students have criticized the administration for its delayed response, vowing to continue their agitation until their demands are met.

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