Abstract:
In recent weeks, a large number of aspirants for the 70th Bihar Public Service Commission (BPSC) examination have been protesting against what they deem a fundamentally unfair enrollment and registration process. The discontent, fueled by server outages and alleged administrative negligence, escalated into confrontation and reports of violence. Demonstrators assert that peaceful protesters—both male and female—faced aggressive force, including baton charges, leaving many hospitalized. At the heart of their demands is a plea for fairness: the reopening of the 70th BPSC form registration process so that all qualified candidates can have their rightful opportunity to participate.
1. Introduction
The 70th BPSC examination is considered one of the largest, most significant competitive recruitments in Bihar’s history. The scale of this hiring drive, offering an expansive number of positions, has captured the attention of countless hopefuls seeking a stable and prestigious career in public service. However, technical issues, strict deadlines, and alleged administrative rigidity have threatened the fairness and inclusivity of the process.
2. Context and Background
BPSC examinations are known for their extensive syllabus and rigorous preparation requirements. Many aspirants dedicate an entire year—or more—to intensively study for these exams. Unlike smaller recruitment drives, the 70th BPSC examination presents a rare and highly coveted opportunity due to the large number of vacancies. The stakes for candidates are extraordinarily high, and any hindrance to their participation is tantamount to jeopardizing their futures.
3. The Core Issues
3.1 Server Failures and Submission Problems:
Candidates report that during critical registration periods, the official website experienced severe server slowdowns and downtimes. Many were unable to complete payments or even submit their forms due to these technical glitches. As deadlines approached, thousands found themselves stranded partway through the registration process, with no fault of their own.
3.2 Limited Timeframes vs. Prolonged Results:
Protesters question the paradox in BPSC’s approach: while results from previous examinations have taken months to be published, the commission has not shown similar flexibility in extending form-filling deadlines. The aspirants argue that if it is acceptable for the commission to spend months finalizing results, it should also be reasonable to allow an additional 10 days—or at least a short grace period—for registration and fee payment, especially given the technical failures.
3.3 Forced into Protest:
Aspirants insist that they never intended to protest, block roads, or confront law enforcement. Their protests, they maintain, were a last resort, born out of desperation. They claim that the commission’s unyielding stance and lack of communication left them with no choice but to make their voices heard in a public forum.
4. Violent Confrontations and Its Aftermath
4.1 Reports of Police Action:
As the protests gained momentum, accounts surfaced of law enforcement using disproportionate force against demonstrators. Among the most shocking claims are that female protesters—referred to as “our sisters” by some witnesses—faced baton charges. Men attempting to shield them or reason with the authorities reportedly also suffered injuries, some severe enough to require hospitalization.
4.2 Emotional and Psychological Toll:
The image of peaceful aspirants, many of whom have invested years of their lives preparing for this exam, being subjected to violence, has sparked outrage. These incidents have not only inflicted physical harm but also dealt a crushing emotional and psychological blow to candidates who already carry the heavy burden of uncertainty and anxiety over their futures.
5. Political and Social Resonance
5.1 Appeals to the Government and Opposition:
The protesters have directed their pleas to Bihar’s Chief Minister, Nitish Kumar, urging him to recognize the gravity of their situation and intervene. They have also sought support from opposition parties, hoping that a collective political effort could lead to a fair resolution. The movement has drawn widespread attention, with supporters highlighting the need for transparency, accountability, and empathy in public administration.
5.2 Social Media Mobilization:
Social media platforms, particularly Twitter, have served as powerful amplifiers for the protesters’ voices. Hashtags such as #Reopen70thBPSCForm and #दिलीप_कुमार_को_रिहा_करो have trended as supporters share stories, documents, and video evidence of failed registrations and police action. This digital activism aims to keep the issue in the public eye and pressure the authorities to respond.
6. The Demand for Solutions
The aspirants and their allies are not seeking preferential treatment; they are asking for fairness and a level playing field. The core demands include:
- Extension or Reopening of the Online Application Form: Allowing a short window for candidates who faced server-related issues to submit and pay exam fees.
- Transparent Communication: The BPSC and related authorities should clearly outline the technical failures and propose remedies.
- Compassionate Consideration: Given the scale of this examination and the significance of these career opportunities, a few extra days or a user-friendly solution to registration problems is a reasonable request.
7. Path Forward
Resolving this issue requires a balanced approach. The BPSC and state authorities must engage in good-faith dialogue with the aspirants. Potential solutions could include:
- Temporarily reopening the registration portal under monitored conditions, ensuring server stability and transparent notifications.
- Providing a grievance redressal mechanism so candidates who missed deadlines due to technical failures can submit proof and get their applications accepted.
- Committing to non-violent, constructive communication in any future demonstrations, while law enforcement should exercise restraint and uphold citizens’ right to peaceful protest.
8. Conclusion
The turmoil surrounding the 70th BPSC examination registration process highlights the need for empathy, transparency, and fairness in public-sector recruitment. Tens of thousands of aspirants, who have poured time, effort, and resources into preparing for this exam, now find themselves at the mercy of administrative decisions and technological shortcomings. The outrage, protests, and reported use of force have cast a shadow over this significant hiring exercise. The resolution of this issue—through reopening registration opportunities, engaging in open dialogue, and ensuring the humane treatment of protestors—will define the credibility and integrity of the BPSC and the state’s commitment to justice, fairness, and accessible public service opportunities.