Patna: The Patna High Court has reserved its verdict on petitions demanding the cancellation of the 70th Bihar Public Service Commission (BPSC) preliminary examination and a re-examination. A bench comprising Acting Chief Justice Ashutosh Kumar and Justice Parth Sarthi concluded the hearing on Wednesday. The decision on the matter could be announced at any time.
The case was also heard on Tuesday but could not be completed due to time constraints. The bench conducted a marathon hearing from 10.30 am to 4 pm, addressing six petitions simultaneously.
Bihar Government Defends BPSC Exam, Dismisses Allegations
Representing the Bihar government, Advocate General PK Shahi argued that the allegations made by petitioners were baseless. He stated that the 70th preliminary exam was conducted peacefully, with all guidelines issued by the commission being strictly followed.
Shahi informed the court that police forces were deployed outside examination centres to prevent disturbances from private coaching institute representatives and candidates’ family members. He also emphasized that jammers were installed at all centres to prevent any malpractice.
Addressing concerns over the examination held at Bapu Examination Bhawan in Patna, Shahi admitted that some students had created a ruckus, leading to disruptions. However, he maintained that necessary action had been taken, including the registration of two FIRs at Agamkuan police station, arrests, and a three-year ban on some students from appearing in the examination.
High Court Questions Strict Action Against Candidates
During the hearing, the High Court expressed concern over the harsh measures taken against certain BPSC candidates. The bench remarked that banning students from appearing in exams for three years seemed excessive, urging the commission to reconsider its approach.
BPSC Stands Firm, Defends Examination Process
The BPSC dismissed all allegations raised by the petitioners, maintaining that the examination process was fair and transparent. The commission stated that it had considered objections raised by students regarding controversial questions, and the matter was reviewed by an expert committee before finalizing the results.
Following the hearing of arguments from both sides, the court refused to stay the declaration of the preliminary examination results and reserved its verdict.
