Introduction
Patna witnessed high drama as Jan Suraaj Party leader Prashant Kishor was arrested while sitting on an indefinite hunger strike at Gandhi Maidan. Kishor, a well-known political strategist turned politician, was protesting against alleged irregularities in the 70th Bihar Public Service Commission (BPSC) prelims examination. Demanding its cancellation, Kishor’s strike gained significant public attention, highlighting concerns about transparency and fairness in the state’s premier civil service exams.
This article delves into the controversy, Kishor’s demands, the state’s response, and the broader implications of this unfolding episode.
The BPSC Exam Row: A Background
The Bihar Public Service Commission, which is responsible for conducting recruitment exams for government posts, has come under fire for alleged malpractices during its 70th prelims examination. Aspirants have raised serious concerns about:
- Alleged paper leaks.
- Manipulation in evaluation processes.
- Discrepancies in question papers.
These allegations have sparked widespread agitation among students, intensifying calls for reform in the recruitment system.
Prashant Kishor’s Stand and Hunger Strike
Kishor’s Motivation
Prashant Kishor, known for his grassroots campaigns and political consultancy work, took a strong stance on the BPSC issue. He cited multiple grievances from aspirants who alleged systemic corruption and lack of accountability in the examination process. According to Kishor, such practices undermine the aspirations of Bihar’s youth, who seek a fair chance at government jobs.
Hunger Strike at Gandhi Maidan
Kishor launched an indefinite hunger strike at Patna’s iconic Gandhi Maidan, demanding the immediate cancellation of the prelims exam. The venue, historically significant for protests and movements, became a focal point for his call for justice. His demands included:
- Cancellation and re-conduction of the 70th BPSC prelims.
- A transparent inquiry into alleged malpractices.
- Systemic reforms to ensure fair examinations in the future.
The Arrest: State’s Response to Kishor’s Protest
Police Action at Gandhi Maidan
The situation escalated when the Patna administration directed the police to arrest Kishor, citing concerns over public safety and law and order. Officials claimed his protest had potential to disrupt normalcy in the area, which hosts large gatherings daily.
Kishor’s supporters, however, accused the government of stifling democratic dissent and silencing legitimate voices questioning the integrity of state institutions.
Public Reaction: Solidarity and Backlash
Support from Aspirants
Prashant Kishor’s arrest prompted an outpouring of support from BPSC aspirants and civil society groups. Many students see Kishor as a champion of their cause, willing to highlight their struggles on a public platform. Hashtags like #JusticeForBPSCStudents trended on social media, reflecting growing anger among Bihar’s youth.
Political Reactions
While the Jan Suraaj Party condemned the arrest as an attack on democratic rights, opposition parties criticized the Bihar government for ignoring genuine grievances. The ruling administration dismissed the protest as “politically motivated,” further fueling the debate. 
Deeper Issues: Why the BPSC Row Matters
Trust in Recruitment Institutions
The controversy surrounding the 70th BPSC prelims highlights growing mistrust in recruitment bodies, not just in Bihar but across India. Paper leaks, corruption, and opaque processes undermine faith in systems designed to reward merit.
Impact on Aspirants
For thousands of students dedicating years to preparation, such scandals represent a betrayal. The alleged malpractices not only jeopardize their future but also erode confidence in government-led opportunities.
Call for Reforms
This episode underscores the urgent need for systemic reforms to prevent malpractices, including:
- Stricter safeguards to prevent leaks.
- Independent inquiries into grievances.
- Digitization of examination processes for better accountability.
The Role of Gandhi Maidan in Bihar’s Political Landscape
Gandhi Maidan has historically been a site of resistance, with notable movements led by Jayaprakash Narayan and other stalwarts. By choosing this venue, Prashant Kishor tapped into its symbolism, signaling his commitment to addressing public grievances.
Broader Political Implications
Prashant Kishor’s Political Strategy
Prashant Kishor’s protest and subsequent arrest could redefine his image as a political leader. His efforts to directly connect with the youth and address their concerns might position him as a credible alternative in Bihar’s polarized political arena.
Pressure on the Bihar Government
The Prashant Kishor controversy puts Chief Minister Nitish Kumar’s administration in a difficult position, with increased scrutiny over the government’s handling of recruitment processes and democratic dissent.
Legal and Institutional Challenges
- Investigating the Allegations: A proper inquiry into the 70th BPSC prelims is necessary to restore trust in the system.
- Protecting the Right to Protest: The arrest raises questions about the balance between maintaining law and order and upholding constitutional rights.
Conclusion
Prashant Kishor’s arrest amid the BPSC exam row is more than just an isolated incident; it represents a larger struggle for accountability, transparency, and justice in Bihar’s governance. As the dust settles, the Bihar government must take concrete steps to address the grievances of students while ensuring democratic voices like Kishor’s are heard, not silenced.
In a state where opportunities remain scarce for the youth, ensuring a fair and transparent recruitment system is not just a demand—it’s a necessity for building trust in public institutions.