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The recent crackdown on protesting BPSC (Bihar Public Service Commission) aspirants in Patna, Bihar, highlights a growing tension between the state government and those seeking employment through the competitive examination process. The incident, marked by the use of water cannons and what some witnesses described as a lathi charge (cane charge), underscores a deeper issue regarding transparency, fairness, and the right to peaceful protest within the Indian democratic system. The protests stem from the aspirants’ demand for a re-examination of the 70th BPSC preliminary exam held on December 13th, 2024. Their dissatisfaction likely arises from perceived irregularities or concerns about the examination's conduct, leading them to believe that a fair assessment was not possible. This highlights a crucial aspect of the Indian education system, where competitive examinations often hold immense importance in shaping the future careers of millions of aspiring individuals.
The police response, characterized by the deployment of water cannons and a reported lathi charge, has drawn considerable criticism. While the police claim they only used water cannons and that the lathi charge is misrepresented, videos circulating on social media appear to contradict this statement. This discrepancy in accounts underscores the need for transparency and independent investigation into the incident. The use of force against peaceful protestors raises serious questions about the proportionality of the police response. Did the protestors pose an imminent threat that warranted such strong measures? Or was the police response excessive and indicative of a more authoritarian approach to dissent? The absence of a designated representative for the protesting students further complicates the situation. The police's claim that they requested the protestors to vacate the area highlights a perceived lack of effective communication and negotiation between the authorities and the protestors.
The involvement of prominent political figure Prashant Kishore, who extended his support to the protesting aspirants, adds another layer of complexity to the situation. Kishore's criticism of the Bihar administration, labeling their actions as 'lathi-tantra' (rule of the baton), effectively frames the issue as a larger struggle for democratic rights and freedom of expression. His assertion that Gandhi Maidan, a public space, is a legitimate venue for peaceful protest underscores the fundamental right to assembly and dissent guaranteed by the Indian constitution. By characterizing the government's response as a matter of prestige, Kishore raises concerns about the government's willingness to engage in open dialogue and address legitimate concerns of the citizens. His characterization of Bihar as the ‘mother of democracy’ serves as a powerful rhetorical tool, highlighting the irony of suppressing peaceful protests in a state with such historical significance for democratic movements.
This incident in Bihar serves as a case study in the delicate balance between maintaining law and order and upholding fundamental rights. The use of force against protestors raises questions about the methods employed by the authorities to handle dissent. The incident also points to deeper issues concerning the efficacy and transparency of the BPSC examination process. The demands of the aspirants for a re-examination should be seriously considered, and an independent inquiry into the allegations of irregularities is warranted. Moving forward, the Bihar government must prioritize effective communication and engagement with protestors to avoid the recurrence of such confrontations. Ensuring a fair and transparent examination process is paramount, and the government must address the concerns of the aspirants to restore confidence in the system. This also requires a commitment to safeguarding the fundamental right to peaceful protest within the democratic framework of the nation.
Source: From lathicharge to water cannons: Bihar police crackdown on protesting BPSC aspirants