Prashant Kishor Concludes Hunger Strike Over BPSC Examination Controversy

Click to start listening
Prashant Kishor Concludes Hunger Strike Over BPSC Examination Controversy

Synopsis

Prashant Kishor, founder of the Jan Suraaj Party, has concluded his hunger strike after 15 days of protest against the alleged irregularities in the 70th BPSC Preliminary Examination. His demands included a re-examination and accountability for malpractice, as well as compensation for the affected candidates.

Key Takeaways

  • Prashant Kishor ended his hunger strike after 15 days.
  • He demanded the cancellation of the 70th BPSC Preliminary Examination.
  • Accountability for exam-related irregularities was sought.
  • He emphasized the need for systemic reforms in Bihar.
  • A tent city was set up as the party's operational hub.

Patna, Jan 16 (NationPress) Prashant Kishor, the leader of the Jan Suraaj Party, concluded his hunger strike on Thursday after a continuous protest lasting 15 days. Kishor initiated his hunger strike on January 2, advocating for the cancellation and re-conduct of the 70th Preliminary Examination of the Bihar Public Service Commission (BPSC) due to reported irregularities.

He outlined a set of 5 key demands, including the cancellation of the 70th BPSC Preliminary Examination, a re-examination to ensure transparency and fairness, accountability for alleged examination malpractices, and compensation for a candidate who tragically committed suicide following the examination.

On Thursday, Kishor returned to the Jan Suraaj Ashram at LCT Ghat in Patna, where he performed a ceremonial dip in the Ganges River before breaking his hunger strike with a banana.

He also conducted a havan (a ritual fire offering) and adorned the statue of Mahatma Gandhi, paying homage to the leader whose principles he claims to uphold.

Kishor pledged to persist in advocating for systemic reforms in Bihar, stating, “I am following the path laid by Mahatma Gandhi. We will now proceed from this ashram.”

He emphasized that the Jan Suraaj Ashram would be his operational base for addressing the challenges faced by the citizens of Bihar.

Kishor commenced his hunger strike at Gandhi Maidan on January 2, seeking justice for BPSC candidates.

On January 7, he was briefly detained by Patna Police during the early hours but was released on bail the same day. Despite being hospitalized due to health concerns, Kishor remained resolute in his hunger strike, showcasing his dedication to the cause.

A delegation of BPSC candidates previously approached Bihar Governor Arif Mohammad Khan to voice their concerns.

In addition, the Jan Suraaj Party initiated the establishment of a tent city on private land at LCT Ghat. Although the district administration initially prohibited the construction, they later permitted a temporary camp.

A tent city was ultimately created, serving as the party’s operational center.