Patna: The controversy surrounding the Bihar Public Service Commission (BPSC) 70th preliminary examination has reached dramatic proportions, with educator Guru Rehman making a striking protest by writing a letter in his own blood. Rehman stated that he had “cut the vein of his hand” to address the letter to the Governor, Chief Minister, and BPSC Chairman, demanding a re-examination of the preliminary test.
Rehman, a vocal critic of the examination process, declared, “If needed, I will even cut my neck. I accept death but will never apologize to BPSC. If they want to send me to jail, so be it. I am ready to sacrifice my life for the welfare of the students.”
The BPSC 70th preliminary examination, held on December 13, 2024 at 912 centers across Bihar, has been marred by allegations of malpractice, particularly at the Bapu Examination Complex in Patna. Following these allegations, the exam at this center was canceled and re-conducted on January 4. However, many candidates continue to demand a statewide re-examination, leading to ongoing protests at Gardanibagh.
The issue gained national attention on January 18, when Congress leader Rahul Gandhi visited the protesting candidates. Gandhi assured them of his support, saying, “I am with you. Wherever you say, you will find Rahul Gandhi standing with you.”
Adding to the pressure, Prashant Kishor’s party, Jansuraj, filed a petition in the Patna High Court seeking a re-examination. However, the court declined to halt the ongoing process of the 70th preliminary test. It directed BPSC to submit an affidavit by January 30, with the next hearing scheduled for January 31.
Despite the legal setback, the candidates’ demands for a re-examination persist, reflecting widespread frustration with the integrity of the examination process. The protests at Gardanibagh and the escalating rhetoric from stakeholders underline the deepening crisis in Bihar’s public service recruitment system.
