The protests by students in Bihar, particularly those preparing for the Bihar Public Service Commission (BPSC) examinations, have escalated significantly in recent days. Students are voicing strong opposition to the potential implementation of a normalization process for the upcoming 70th BPSC Preliminary Examination, scheduled for December 13, 2024. This article provides an updated overview of the situation, including recent developments and responses from authorities.
Why Are Students Protesting?
Students are demanding that the BPSC conduct the examination in a single shift with a common question paper rather than utilizing a normalization process. Normalization aims to adjust scores based on the difficulty of different exam shifts, which many students believe could disadvantage those who take the exam under more challenging conditions. The protests intensified as students faced technical issues that prevented them from completing their applications on time, exacerbating their frustrations.
Recent Developments
BPSC Chairman’s Statement
On December 6, BPSC Chairman Ravi S. Parmar labelled the protests as “unwarranted,” asserting that there would be no normalization for the exam and confirming that it would be conducted in a single shift. The commission issued a notification clarifying that normalization was not part of the examination process, countering circulating rumors on social media.
Khan Sir’s Involvement and Release
Prominent educator Khan Sir, known for his significant following among students in Patna, joined the protests and was briefly detained on December 6. He was released later that night from Patna’s Gardanibagh Police Station. During his detention, Khan Sir emphasised that the protests were constitutional and aimed at ensuring fair treatment for all students. He reiterated demands for clarity regarding examination policies and called for an extension of application deadlines due to server issues affecting many candidates.
Police Action and Political Support
The protests have seen significant police presence and actions, including lathi charges against demonstrators, resulting in injuries among protesters. Despite police claims that no serious injuries occurred, eyewitness accounts suggest otherwise. Political figures have also begun to support the students’ cause; opposition leader Tejashwi Prasad Yadav has condemned police actions and called for a sympathetic approach to student demands.
The Broader Issue with Normalisation
The normalization debate is not new; it has been a contentious topic in various examinations across India. Students fear that such processes undermine their individual performances and create disparities among candidates. Despite assurances from BPSC officials that normalization will not be applied this time, uncertainty remains among students about how their scores will be evaluated.
Current Status of Protests
As of December 7, 2024, protests continue outside BPSC offices in Patna, with students remaining steadfast in their demands for clear communication regarding examination procedures. The situation remains tense as both students and authorities navigate this critical moment leading up to the examination date.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
At The Logical Indian, we believe in fostering dialogue and understanding amidst unrest. The ongoing protests highlight the importance of listening to student voices and addressing their concerns with empathy and respect. We advocate for peaceful resolutions that prioritise kindness and harmony within our educational systems. It is essential for authorities to engage constructively with these young aspirants to ensure their rights are upheld while promoting positive social change.
In light of this situation, how can we encourage more constructive dialogue between students and educational authorities? We invite our readers to share their thoughts and experiences on this pressing issue.
