Patna: The protest against the Bihar Public Service Commission (BPSC) has taken a dramatic turn as agitators blocked national and state highways in 12 districts and disrupted train services. Pappu Yadav, along with his supporters, stopped passenger trains in Patna, Madhepura, and other districts, demanding justice for students. Meanwhile, Prashant Kishore continues his hunger strike at Gandhi Maidan, rallying support for the protesting candidates.
The protest erupted over demands to cancel the 70th BPSC preliminary examination, citing irregularities, and to take action against those responsible for the alleged lathi charge. Protesters have also sought Rs 5 crore in compensation for Sonu, a student who reportedly lost his life during the protests.
Supporters of Pappu Yadav disrupted train services at Secretariat Halt Railway Station and other locations. Yadav himself joined the agitation, leading a march from Secretariat Halt to Income Tax Golambar before leaving the site. His workers have blocked highways in districts including Sasaram, Supaul, Kishanganj, Madhepura, Saharsa, Purnia, and Bhagalpur. He warned that the protests would intensify if the government did not address the students’ concerns.
In Patna, police thwarted attempts by India Alliance student organizations, including NSUI, AISA, AISF, and RJD, to march toward the Chief Minister’s residence. Protesters broke the first barricade but were stopped again by a stronger police presence. The student organizations have temporarily ended their protests but announced a statewide agitation on January 6 if their demands remain unmet.
Tejashwi Yadav, Leader of Opposition and an RJD leader, extended his support to the students, aligning with their demands for reforms in the examination system and action against those involved in irregularities.
At Gandhi Maidan, Prashant Kishore’s hunger strike continues to draw large crowds. Kishore has been advocating for transparency in the BPSC examination process and has called for an investigation into malpractices. His demands include re-examination of the 70th BPSC exam, unemployment allowances for the youth, and implementation of a domicile policy for government jobs.
The protests have revealed deep-seated frustrations among Bihar’s youth regarding the education system and employment opportunities. Slogans like “BPSC Hai Hai!” and “Re-exam, we will take it!” dominate the streets, amplifying the call for justice and reforms.
With the protests spreading across the state and key leaders stepping in, the BPSC and the Bihar government face mounting pressure to resolve the crisis. The next phase of the agitation, planned for January 6, is likely to escalate tensions further if the demands are not addressed.
