BPSC Aspirants Protest in Patna Demanding Exam Cancellation
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Synopsis
On January 30, hundreds of candidates protested in Patna, demanding the cancellation of the BPSC exam amid traffic chaos. Despite the release of results, grievances about irregularities continue, with multiple petitions filed against the exam process.
Key Takeaways
- Protest at BPSC office in Patna.
- Demands for exam cancellation persist.
- Traffic chaos affected local commuters.
- Protesters mobilized support across districts.
- Legal proceedings concerning exam irregularities upcoming.
Patna, Jan 30 (NationPress) Hundreds of protesters gathered on Thursday at Bailey Road, adjacent to the Bihar Public Service Commission (BPSC) office, causing significant traffic disruptions in the vicinity. Despite the declaration of the results for the 70th BPSC preliminary exam, candidates persistently called for the cancellation of the examination.
The traffic congestion created considerable difficulties for commuters, especially for school children and their parents, who faced challenges navigating through the gridlock near the Income Tax roundabout.
The situation escalated near the flyover, where vehicles were immobilized, prompting individuals to resort to descending the bridge stairs on their bikes to evade the gridlock.
In reaction to the demonstration, authorities dispatched a substantial police presence, equipped with water cannons and fire brigade vehicles.
Officials endeavored to soothe the protesters, yet the demonstrators remained resolute in their demand for the cancellation of the exam.
Previously, on Wednesday, a faction of protesting candidates at Gardanibagh had declared their intention to protest against the BPSC starting Thursday.
As part of their predetermined strategy, they arrived at Bailey Road and moved towards the BPSC office for the demonstration.
They had already rallied support by visiting coaching centers in Musallahpur Haat, Bhikhana Pahadi, Annie Besant Road, and other locations, encouraging students to join the protest in significant numbers.
Moreover, they are reaching out to students across multiple districts in Bihar to bolster their cause.
Since December 18, 2024, protesting candidates have been conducting a dharna (sit-in protest) at Gardanibagh, branding their movement “Shiksha Satyagraha” in the tradition of Mahatma Gandhi’s principles of non-violence.
Candidates are also challenging the BPSC’s decision to announce exam results while the matter is still under judicial scrutiny. They claim the commission acted hastily, ignoring students’ concerns and the pending court ruling.
Importantly, the Patna High Court is set to hear a plea regarding the alleged irregularities on January 31.
A total of 14 petitions have been submitted, seeking the exam's cancellation on various grounds, including question paper leaks, last-minute changes to exam centers, and procedural errors.
The court has consolidated all petitions into one for a comprehensive hearing.
