Bihar paper leak march: Tejashwi to lead Raj Bhavan protest on Aug 19
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) National Working President and Bihar's Leader of Opposition Tejashwi Yadav on Sunday, 16 August launched a sharp attack on the BJP-led Bihar state government over what he described as a deteriorating law and order situation, recurring paper leak scandals, and the alleged use of an AK-47 rifle against student protesters in Siwan. He announced that the RJD will lead a march to Raj Bhavan in Patna on 19 August to place the grievances of students and youth directly before the Governor.
The Raj Bhavan March: Who Will Participate
Tejashwi stated that the march will draw students, teachers, coaching institute pupils, and all those frustrated with the state's examination and employment systems. He also extended an open invitation to leaders from other states to join the protest. The march is intended to mount pressure on the state government and demand accountability on multiple fronts, from examination integrity to police conduct.
Paper Leaks Across Bihar Examinations
Tejashwi alleged that complaints of paper leaks have surfaced across a wide range of examinations in Bihar, spanning matriculation and intermediate board exams as well as government recruitment tests. He claimed that Bihar is earning a damaging reputation nationally due to these recurring irregularities, and accused the state government of failing to institute systemic reforms despite repeated incidents.
Siwan Firing: Demand for Accountability
Referring to last month's incident in Siwan, Tejashwi alleged that police allegedly brandished and fired an AK-47 at students who were agitating against paper leaks. He demanded to know who ordered the firing on the protesting students and said the matter had been escalated to Bihar's Director General of Police (DGP) Vinay Kumar. He noted that not a single constable has been dismissed in connection with the incident, and no action has been taken against other officials he deemed responsible.
Jobs Promise and Liquor Ban Under Fire
Widening his attack, Tejashwi targeted the state government over its promise of one crore jobs, claiming the BJP-led administration had failed to deliver even one lakh positions. He also alleged that Bihar's liquor prohibition policy has collapsed in practice, with alcohol reportedly being delivered to homes despite the official ban remaining in force. 'The ground reality is far different,' he said, contrasting the government's public claims with what he described as open violations.
What Comes Next
The 19 August march to Raj Bhavan will serve as a key test of the RJD's ability to mobilise youth and student support ahead of the next electoral cycle. Whether the Governor responds to the delegation's demands — or whether the state government moves to address the paper leak and Siwan firing controversies — will determine the political momentum that follows.