The ongoing crisis surrounding the Bihar Public Service Commission (BPSC) 70th Preliminary Test (PT) has taken a dramatic turn. Protests demanding the cancellation of the exam and a re-examination have escalated across Bihar, leading to widespread political upheaval. The arrest of Jan Suraj founder and political strategist Prashant Kishor has added fuel to the fire. Here is a detailed account of the events as they unfold, examining the background, implications, and reactions.
Background of the BPSC Protest
The BPSC conducted its 70th Preliminary Test on December 13. Soon after, allegations of irregularities and malpractices surfaced. Aspirants accused the examination authorities of widespread cheating and paper leaks. These accusations sparked protests at Patna’s Gardanibagh, where aspirants began an indefinite dharna. The movement gained traction after reports of police action against protesters, including baton charges.
Political figures, including Prashant Kishor, Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leader Tejashwi Yadav, and Jan Adhikar Party (JAP) chief Pappu Yadav, have voiced support for the aspirants’ demands. The issue has become a rallying point for opposition parties and student organizations, leading to statewide agitation.
Prashant Kishor’s Role and Arrest
Prashant Kishor, who has been leading a grassroots movement under the banner of Jan Suraj, joined the aspirants’ protest, declaring an indefinite fast at Gandhi Maidan, Patna. Kishor emphasized the need for transparency in public examinations and accountability from BPSC.
Early on January 6, police detained Kishor from Gandhi Maidan, citing law and order concerns. His health was evaluated at Fatuha hospital before being taken to Patna Court for legal proceedings. The arrest, occurring at approximately 3:45 AM, has sparked widespread outrage among his supporters. Jan Suraj has alleged that Kishor was manhandled during the arrest, with claims of police slapping him, further intensifying the protests.
Seizure of the Vanity Van
Kishor’s signature campaign vehicle, a vanity van equipped with facilities for long-term public engagements, was also seized by the authorities. Police have justified the action as part of maintaining public order. This move has drawn criticism, with many calling it an attempt to suppress dissent.
Clashes Between Supporters and Police
Following Kishor’s arrest, clashes erupted between Jan Suraj supporters and the police outside AIIMS Patna, where Kishor was initially taken. Protesters alleged high-handedness by the police, while law enforcement officials accused them of obstructing official duties. The Gandhi Maidan area was heavily barricaded, with all entry points sealed.
Statewide Agitation and Political Reactions
The arrest has galvanized the opposition and student organizations. Jan Suraj has announced statewide protests against police actions and in solidarity with the aspirants. The Mahagathbandhan, including RJD and allied student wings, has also called for resistance marches in all districts. RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav and other opposition leaders have condemned the arrest, terming it an attack on democratic rights.
Tejashwi Yadav’s Statement: “The government’s authoritarian approach is evident in the way peaceful protesters and leaders like Prashant Kishor are being treated. We demand an immediate release and a fair investigation into the allegations surrounding the BPSC examination.”
Pappu Yadav’s Support: JAP leader Pappu Yadav, who visited the protest site, expressed solidarity with the aspirants and criticized the government for its lack of accountability.
Legal and Institutional Developments
In addition to street protests, Jan Suraj has announced plans to file a petition in the High Court, seeking judicial intervention to address the alleged malpractices in the BPSC examination. Legal experts have pointed out that if proven, these irregularities could have severe implications for the credibility of the state’s recruitment process.
BPSC, on its part, has denied any wrongdoing. A spokesperson stated: “The examination was conducted in a fair and transparent manner. Allegations of paper leaks and malpractice are baseless and politically motivated.”
However, the Commission’s statement has done little to pacify the protesters, who are demanding a complete cancellation of the examination and a fresh test under strict supervision.
Impact on Aspirants
The controversy has left thousands of aspirants in a state of uncertainty. Many have expressed concerns over the fairness of the recruitment process and the impact of the ongoing turmoil on their career prospects. An aspirant participating in the protest remarked: “We have spent years preparing for these exams. The alleged malpractices have shattered our faith in the system. We demand justice and transparency.”
Public and Media Reactions
The issue has sparked widespread public and media attention. While some have criticized the government’s handling of the protests, others have called for an impartial inquiry into the allegations.
Social media platforms are abuzz with hashtags like #JusticeForBPSC and #ReleasePrashantKishor, reflecting the growing public sentiment against the government’s actions.
Wider Implications
The BPSC controversy has highlighted systemic issues in Bihar’s examination and recruitment processes. The incident has also raised questions about the state’s handling of dissent and freedom of expression. Political analysts believe that the protests could have long-term implications for Bihar’s political landscape, with opposition parties gaining momentum ahead of the next elections.
Government Response
The Nitish Kumar-led government has remained largely silent on the issue. However, sources indicate that the Chief Minister’s office is closely monitoring the situation. A senior official commented: “The administration is committed to maintaining law and order while ensuring a fair resolution to the ongoing crisis. Allegations of police excesses will be investigated.”
Conclusion
The BPSC protest has evolved into a significant political and social crisis in Bihar. The arrest of Prashant Kishor has added a new dimension to the issue, transforming it from a localized examination dispute to a broader fight for justice and accountability. As the protests continue to escalate, all eyes are on the government’s next move and the High Court’s response to the legal petitions.
The coming days will be critical in determining the outcome of this controversy and its impact on Bihar’s governance and political landscape. For now, the demand for justice from aspirants, activists, and political leaders remains steadfast, echoing across the streets and social platforms of Bihar.
