Patna: Librarian Candidates in Patna staged a protest march on Tuesday, expressing anger over delays in recruitment for thousands of vacant posts across Bihar. Demonstrating under the banner of the All Bihar Trained Librarian Association, participants began their march from the central library of Patna University and proceeded towards Kargil Chowk, demanding the immediate announcement of the examination schedule.
Upon reaching Kargil Chowk, protesters sat on the road and later lay down in a symbolic act of dissent. Some participants used pillows while lying on the street and raised slogans against the state’s education minister, with conch-blowing adding to the intensity of the demonstration. The protest reflected growing frustration among job seekers awaiting recruitment progress despite the release of official guidelines.
Police responded by installing barricades around Kargil Chowk and deploying additional personnel, along with water cannons, as a precautionary measure. Authorities maintained dialogue with the demonstrators throughout the protest. While the situation remained tense at times, officials said the gathering stayed largely peaceful, and the administration appealed to protesters to maintain calm.
Association representatives said the absence of an exam date despite the issuance of recruitment rules has created uncertainty for aspirants. Patna district president Harshit Raj described the delay as unfair to youth and warned that the agitation would intensify if authorities fail to act promptly. Protesters reiterated calls for a regular and transparent recruitment process.
More than 10,000 librarian positions remain vacant across Bihar, including posts in schools, colleges and universities. The prolonged vacancies have affected library operations, with non-specialist staff reportedly managing responsibilities in several institutions. Police later persuaded demonstrators to disperse, though aspirants vowed to continue their campaign until their demands are addressed.
