Patna became the epicenter of unrest on Sunday as students protesting the alleged paper leak in the Bihar Public Service Commission (BPSC) exam clashed with the police. The demonstration spiraled into chaos, leading to an FIR against Prashant Kishor, leaders of the Jan Suraaj Party, several coaching institute owners, and over 700 unnamed protestors.

The protestors, primarily aspirants of the 70th Combined Competitive Examination, have accused the state of negligence and demanded an immediate re-test. Their grievances stem from allegations that the leaked exam paper undermined the integrity of the recruitment process.

The Protest and Police Crackdown

The unrest began at Patna’s historic Gandhi Maidan, where students gathered to voice their demands. Their march toward JP Golambar, en route to Chief Minister Nitish Kumar’s residence, saw tension build rapidly. The demonstration turned confrontational when protestors broke barricades and reportedly damaged police loudspeakers.

The police accused the Jan Suraaj Party of orchestrating an unauthorized march that disrupted public order. In response, authorities used batons and water cannons to disperse the crowd, leaving the area in disarray.

“Repeated appeals to follow the law went unheard. The protestors defied guidelines, resulting in a public order crisis,” said a senior police officer involved in the operation.

Prashant Kishor’s Involvement

Prashant Kishor, known for his transition from election strategist to political leader, played a visible role in the protest. He marched alongside the students, voicing his support for their demands. Kishor assured that a delegation would meet the Chief Secretary to discuss their concerns. However, the students rejected this proposal, insisting on a direct meeting with the Chief Minister.

Kishor’s earlier plan to hold a “Chhatra Sansad” (Students’ Parliament) at Gandhi Maidan on Gandhi Jayanti had also faced administrative hurdles, with authorities denying permission for the event.

Political Undercurrents

This episode highlights the growing political ambitions of the Jan Suraaj Party, which has recently positioned itself as a significant contender in Bihar’s upcoming assembly elections. The party’s active involvement in student issues has sparked debates about its strategy to gain traction among the youth.

Kishor’s support for the students aligns with his broader narrative of addressing grassroots concerns, potentially setting the stage for a politically charged campaign.

What’s Next?

The demand for accountability in the BPSC examination process has gained momentum, with students calling for systemic reforms to ensure fairness and transparency. The BPSC aspirants, determined to seek justice, continue to highlight what they view as administrative failures.

For the Jan Suraaj Party, this protest could serve as a defining moment, emphasizing its commitment to the state’s youth and their aspirations. As Bihar heads toward its assembly elections, such flashpoints are likely to shape the political discourse, making the fight for justice a pivotal issue.