Recent events involving the Bihar Public Service Commission (BPSC) 70th Combined Preliminary Examination have sparked significant controversy, leading to protests and widespread unrest. Allegations of a question paper leak and mishandling of the examination process have created a storm of frustration among candidates, student groups, and the public. Here’s a detailed summary of the situation:
Allegations of Paper Leak
Chaos at the Examination Center On December 13, 2024, candidates appearing for the BPSC 70th Combined Preliminary Examination at the Bapu Examination Centre in Patna were reportedly met with a chaotic situation. Many candidates alleged that the question paper had been leaked, with rumors spreading quickly through the examination center. Some students claimed that their exam papers were either delayed or arrived damaged, fueling suspicions of a leak. Reports of torn papers or damaged seals led many to believe that the integrity of the examination had been compromised.
Protests Erupt As the situation escalated, an estimated 300 to 400 candidates boycotted the exam in protest. The candidates demanded a re-examination, citing what they believed was a breach of fairness and transparency in the examination process. The protests took a violent turn when a District Magistrate, in an apparent effort to control the situation, was reported to have slapped a protesting candidate. This incident further inflamed tensions and led to greater unrest outside the examination center.
BPSC’s Response
Denial of Allegations In response to the widespread claims of a paper leak, BPSC Chairman Parmar Ravi Manubhai strongly denied the allegations. He asserted that no question papers had been leaked from any of the examination centers and dismissed the accusations as part of a conspiracy to disrupt the examination process. In an official statement, Manubhai described the allegations as unfounded, attempting to shift focus on the disruptive behavior of a few individuals rather than addressing any systemic failures within the commission.
Investigation Promise Despite the chairman’s denials, the BPSC pledged to conduct a thorough investigation into the incident. The commission announced that it would review CCTV footage from the examination center to identify those responsible for inciting the protests and creating disorder. The BPSC warned that strict action would be taken against anyone found guilty of disturbing the examination process, and that the situation would be carefully examined to ensure the incident was not part of a wider plot.
Robust Security Protocols The BPSC had implemented a range of security measures aimed at ensuring the integrity of the examination process. According to officials, more than 30,000 CCTV cameras were installed across various examination centers to monitor the proceedings. In addition, jammers were deployed to prevent cheating via electronic devices, while a command control center was established at the BPSC headquarters to oversee the exam in real time. These measures were intended to ensure a smooth and transparent examination process.
Multiset Question Papers and Strict Protocols: To further enhance the fairness of the exam, the BPSC employed a multiset question paper system, ensuring that different candidates received different sets of questions to reduce the risk of cheating and collusion. In addition, the use of electronic devices was strictly prohibited at all centers, and any suspected irregularities were flagged by the monitoring systems. While these measures were intended to protect the integrity of the examination, the incident has raised questions about the effectiveness of such protocols in preventing malpractice and ensuring a fair environment for all candidates.
Public Reaction
Protests and Calls for Accountability: The allegations of a paper leak and the handling of the protests have drawn sharp criticism from various quarters. Student groups, including those from prominent universities and academic organizations, have called for a thorough investigation into the incident. Many have demanded that the BPSC re-conduct the examination, arguing that the widespread chaos and perceived injustice compromised the integrity of the entire process. Parents and candidates expressed their frustration over the way the situation was handled, with many questioning the ability of the BPSC to manage large-scale examinations efficiently.
Political and Social Reactions: The controversy surrounding the BPSC examination has also sparked political debate in Bihar. Opposition leaders have used the incident to criticize the state government’s handling of the examination process, calling for accountability and transparency. Some have suggested that the incident reflects broader issues within the Bihar Public Service Commission, pointing to previous instances of mismanagement and controversy surrounding public exams. On the other hand, some political figures have supported the BPSC’s stance, arguing that the situation was blown out of proportion and that the commission was taking the necessary steps to investigate and address the matter.
Measures to Address the Issue
Investigation and Identification of Culprits: The BPSC has vowed to investigate the incident thoroughly, starting with the review of CCTV footage to identify those responsible for spreading rumors and inciting unrest. The commission also plans to work closely with local police authorities to examine any instances of violence or disruption that occurred during the protests. Several reports suggest that the police may file FIRs (First Information Reports) against individuals involved in creating chaos at the examination centers.
Criminal Action and Accountability: In addition to reviewing the footage, the BPSC has indicated that it will press criminal charges against any individuals found to be guilty of inciting violence or snatching question papers from invigilators. The commission is also expected to explore potential legal action against those who attempted to disrupt the examination process, labelling such actions as unlawful and unacceptable.
Reassurances of Examination Integrity: The BPSC has continued to reassure the public and candidates that the examination process was conducted fairly, emphasizing that no question paper leaks occurred. The commission has also promised that necessary corrective measures would be taken to prevent similar incidents in the future. The BPSC has stated that it is committed to conducting a transparent examination process that is free from external disturbances and malpractices.
The Aftermath and Future Safeguards
Ongoing Investigation and Monitoring: The investigation into the alleged paper leak and protests is still underway, with authorities closely monitoring the situation. Bihar Police have been tasked with gathering more information and identifying the sources of the unrest. The outcome of this investigation will likely determine the course of future actions, including any potential re-examination or further disciplinary measures against those responsible for the protests.
Future Measures: To prevent future incidents, the BPSC has promised to improve security measures at exam centers and to enhance the overall management of large-scale exams. The commission has also pledged to review its current protocols for paper distribution and examination monitoring, with a view toward ensuring a smoother process in future examinations.
The BPSC 70th Combined Preliminary Examination has been marred by allegations of a paper leak, protests, and widespread unrest. Despite strong denials from the commission, the incident has raised questions about the security and integrity of large-scale examinations in Bihar. With protests continuing and an investigation underway, the BPSC faces pressure to take swift action to restore confidence in its examination processes and ensure that such incidents do not occur in the future.
As the situation unfolds, candidates and the public alike are calling for greater transparency, accountability, and fairness in how state-level exams are conducted in Bihar. The outcome of the ongoing investigation and the response from the BPSC will play a critical role in shaping the future of public service examinations in the state.
