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The Bihar Public Service Commission (BPSC) 70th Integrated Combined Competitive Examination (CCE) 2024 was marred by allegations of a question paper leak, leading to widespread disruption and tragedy at one examination center in Patna. Approximately 300-400 aspirants, fueled by rumors circulating on social media prior to the exam's commencement, boycotted the examination at the Bapu examination center in Kumhrar, alleging that the question paper had been leaked. This protest resulted in significant chaos, tragically culminating in the death of an additional examination superintendent, Ram Iqbal Singh, from a cardiac arrest while an ambulance carrying him was trapped in a blockade created by the protestors. A female candidate also suffered a medical episode and lost consciousness during the disturbance.
The events unfolded rapidly. The examination, a single shift from noon to 2 pm, took place across 912 centers throughout Bihar, with a total of nearly five lakh candidates participating. According to BPSC chairman Parmar Ravi Manubhai, the examination proceeded smoothly and fairly in almost all centers, except for the incident in Patna. He categorically denied any question paper leak, attributing the disturbances to a deliberate conspiracy. He emphasized that mobile phones were prohibited within the examination halls, raising questions about how the rumors of a leak could have spread so rapidly among the candidates. The BPSC chairman pledged a thorough police investigation and scrutiny of CCTV footage to identify and prosecute those responsible for disrupting the examination, describing the actions of the protestors as 'looting public property' and a part of a conspiracy.
The Patna District Magistrate, Chandrashekhar Singh, responded to the unfolding situation at the Kumhrar center. He described a scene of significant unrest, with a large crowd gathering outside the center and news channels capturing footage of the DM using mild force to disperse the unruly protestors. The DM's actions included slapping a bystander and ordering police to apprehend those engaging in disruptive behavior. While acknowledging his actions, the DM clarified that his intent was not to harm or inflict pain, but to maintain order during a tense and potentially dangerous situation. A First Information Report (FIR) has been filed to identify and prosecute those involved in the disturbances, both inside and outside the examination center. The DM also shed light on logistical issues that contributed to the initial unrest. A shortage of question booklets in some examination halls – only 192 sets were available instead of the necessary 272 – caused delays in distribution, leading to heightened tensions and accusations of a leak amongst students who perceived the delay as evidence of foul play. This shortage, ultimately triggering the events that led to the tragedy.
The incident highlights not only the potential for misinformation to disrupt significant events but also underscores the severe stress and anxieties experienced by candidates preparing for competitive examinations. The investigation by the Bihar Police, involving the Economic Offences Unit (EOU), is underway to uncover the truth behind the allegations. This incident adds to the recent history of tensions surrounding the BPSC examinations, with prior protests occurring last week regarding changes in the examination rules. These events raise concerns about the security measures in place for such high-stakes examinations and the need for improved communication and transparency between the examining body and the candidates. The ultimate impact of this incident remains to be seen, with questions lingering about potential repercussions for those involved in the disturbances, and the overall effect on the validity of the examination results. The death of an examination superintendent further adds a layer of tragedy to this already complex and highly sensitive situation.
The narrative surrounding this event is likely to evolve as investigations continue and more evidence emerges. The contradictory accounts – the BPSC’s assertion of a fair exam versus the candidates’ claims of a leaked paper and logistical shortcomings – necessitate a thorough and impartial investigation. The Bihar Police's involvement is crucial in establishing the facts, and any failure to do so will only deepen mistrust in the examination system. The role of social media in disseminating rumors and potentially inciting unrest also warrants serious attention. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the pressure-cooker environment surrounding competitive examinations and the need for robust security measures, clear communication, and effective crisis management to prevent similar events in the future. Finally, the tragic loss of life during the incident highlights the gravity of the situation and the need for accountability for all those involved.
Source: Rumours of paper leak erupts during BPSC exam, commission calls it 'conspiracy', vows action