In the early hours of Monday, Patna Police arrested Jan Suraaj Party chief Prashant Kishor during his indefinite hunger strike at Gandhi Maidan. The protest was organised to demand action over alleged irregularities in the Bihar Public Service Commission (BPSC) exam. Kishor, along with several protesters, was forcibly removed and taken to AIIMS for a medical examination. Patna District Magistrate Chandrashekhar Singh stated that the protest violated regulations, as no dharna is allowed outside the designated Gardan Bagh area.
Protests Against BPSC Paper Leak
The controversy centers around the Integrated 70th Combined Competitive Examination (CCE) conducted on December 13. Allegations of paper leaks, mismanagement, and malfunctioning CCTV cameras at multiple centers have sparked outrage. While the BPSC denied the claims and asserted smooth conduct in 911 out of 912 centers, the exam at one Patna center was canceled. Protesters have been demanding the cancellation of the preliminary exam and a re-examination.
Kishor’s Stand on the Issue
Prashant Kishor, who has transitioned from election strategist to politician, began his hunger strike on January 2, voicing support for students affected by the alleged irregularities. He criticised the government for inaction, stating, “I’ll continue my fast-unto-death until the issue is resolved.” He also announced plans to file a High Court petition on January 7.
Vanity Van Controversy
The protest took an unexpected turn when reports of a luxury vanity van parked near the site emerged. Critics questioned Kishor’s commitment, accusing him of hypocrisy. Kishor refuted the allegations, explaining the van was to avoid false claims of breaking the hunger strike. “If people think the van costs crores, they can pay the rent themselves,” he quipped.
Political Reactions and Accusations
RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav accused the protest of being orchestrated and politicised by BJP allies. “This independent movement is being crushed by those acting as BJP’s ‘B’ team,” he claimed. Kishor, however, called for unity across party lines, urging leaders like Rahul Gandhi and Tejashwi Yadav to support the students’ cause.
What’s Next?
As the protests continue to intensify, the focus remains on whether the Nitish Kumar-led government will respond to the demands for a re-examination. Kishor has warned of escalating measures, including halting Republic Day celebrations at Gandhi Maidan, if action is not taken by the end of January.
