New Delhi, Dec 26: Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, criticized the police response to protesting candidates of the Bihar Public Service Commission (BPSC) in Patna. He asserted that the NDA government is “resorting to lathi-charging students” to conceal its shortcomings.
Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, another Congress leader, also criticized the BJP for the police’s handling of the protests, stating that the ruling party’s primary focus is on preserving its power and oppressing those seeking employment.
In a Hindi post on X, Rahul Gandhi claimed, “I previously mentioned in Parliament that just like Eklavya had his thumb severed, the youth’s futures are being compromised by paper leaks.” He pointed to the recent situation in Bihar where BPSC candidates are vocally protesting against a paper leak and demanding the cancellation of the exam. Instead of addressing this issue, he alleged, the NDA government is resorting to brute force against students.
“This is completely shameful and unacceptable. The future of students must not be jeopardized. We stand by them and will advocate for their rights,” he added.
The protest on Wednesday in Patna turned chaotic due to allegations surrounding the leak of a question paper for the December 13 combined preliminary exam administered by BPSC, resulting in police baton charges on job seekers.
Protesters reported injuries from the police action; however, a senior official refuted these claims.
Priyanka Gandhi remarked on her WhatsApp channel, “To lathi-charge youths with their hands folded is the epitome of cruelty. Under BJP rule, youths demanding jobs face brutal treatment. Whether in UP, Bihar, or Madhya Pradesh, if youths speak out, they are met with violence.”
She emphasized that it is the government’s duty to consider the future of youth in the world’s youngest nation and to create supportive policies. Yet, she alleged, the BJP is only concerned with retaining power.
The Congress party has denounced the police actions towards job aspirants, and Independent MP from Purnea, Rajesh Ranjan (alias Pappu Yadav), urged for a Bihar bandh on January 1, 2025, if the combined preliminary examination from December 13 is not annulled.
Following the protests on Wednesday, the police filed a case against demonstrators. Job seekers reported injuries during the baton charge, a claim the police denied.
Footage of the police’s actions against the aspiring candidates spread widely on social media, with some clips showing police officers pursuing and striking protesters, including women.
PTI was unable to verify the veracity of these videos.
The protesters were heard chanting against BPSC officials while demanding the cancellation of the December 13 exam.
Job seekers continue to call for the annulment of the BPSC’s preliminary examination and request the commission to set a new date for the test promptly. (PTI)
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