In Bihar, student protests demanding a re-examination of the Bihar Public Service Commission (BPSC) have escalated into violent confrontations with police. The unrest, which began over allegations of irregularities in the examination process, has drawn significant political attention and criticism of law enforcement's response.
Key Takeaways
- Protests erupted over alleged irregularities in the BPSC 2024 examination.
- Police used water cannons and batons to disperse crowds, leading to injuries.
- Political leaders, including Prashant Kishor, joined the protests, calling for transparency.
- The Bihar government faces backlash for its handling of the situation.
Background of the Protests
The protests were ignited by claims of a paper leak in the 70th Combined Competitive Examination conducted by the BPSC. Students gathered at Patna's Gandhi Maidan, demanding a re-test and greater transparency in the examination process. The situation escalated when demonstrators attempted to march towards the Chief Minister's office, prompting police intervention.
Police Response and Violence
On December 25, police resorted to lathi charges and water cannons to disperse the protesters. Reports indicate that multiple students were injured during the clashes, with some requiring hospitalization. The police justified their actions by stating that the protests were unauthorized and posed a threat to public order.
Political Reactions
The protests have drawn criticism from various political leaders. Prashant Kishor, a prominent political strategist and leader of the Jan Suraaj Party, participated in the protests, advocating for the students' right to demonstrate. He emphasized that the government must address the students' concerns regarding examination transparency.
Opposition parties, including the Rashtriya Janata Dal and Congress, condemned the police's heavy-handed tactics. Leaders like Tejashwi Yadav and Chirag Paswan have called for a reevaluation of the examination process and urged the government to take immediate action to address the grievances of the students.
Government's Stance
In response to the protests, the Bihar government has announced an investigation into the allegations of irregularities in the BPSC examination. However, the administration's defense of the police's actions has not quelled public outrage. Many students and political leaders are demanding accountability and a more transparent examination process.
Conclusion
The violent turn of the protests in Bihar highlights the growing frustration among students regarding the examination system and the perceived lack of transparency. As the situation unfolds, the government faces mounting pressure to address the concerns raised by the demonstrators and restore order in the state. The outcome of these protests may have significant implications for the political landscape in Bihar as the state approaches upcoming elections.
Sources
- Bihar student protest: Police charge Prashant Kishore and party leaders | Editorji, Editorji.
- Bihar student protests over BPSC exam turn violent, police response draws criticism, Samaa TV.
- BPSC row in Patna: Bihar Police resort to lathi-charge on aspirants as student protest turns ugly - The Economic Times Video | ET Now, The Economic Times.
- Bihar's Student Protest Turns Violent: Political Leaders React | Headlines, Devdiscourse.
