NEW DELHI: Renowned educator and YouTuber Faizal Khan, widely known as Khan Sir, on Friday met with aspirants protesting against the Bihar Public Service Commission (BPSC) in Patna. Addressing the crowd, he urged them to maintain peace during their demonstrations.
“Everyone is demanding a re-examination,” Khan Sir stated while speaking to the aspirants.
He also joined them in chanting slogans against the BPSC, criticising the commission with a quip, “First, the country’s GDP fell, then Bihar’s bridges collapsed, and now the BPSC has fallen.”
The protests, which began on 13 December, were sparked by allegations of irregularities in the BPSC exam. Protestors gathered outside the commission’s office in Patna, demanding the cancellation of the examination.
Candidates have alleged that the question paper was leaked, distribution was delayed, and in some cases, question papers arrived nearly an hour late. Additionally, claims of torn answer sheets have heightened suspicions of malpractice.
The demonstrations have elicited strong political reactions. Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) Chief Lalu Prasad Yadav criticised the police for their handling of the situation, particularly the use of force against students.
“They should not have resorted to this. It was wrong,” Yadav said, condemning the reported “lathi charge” on protestors.
However, police authorities refuted the claims, stating that only “mild force” was used and that no injuries were reported.
On Thursday, Jan Suraj leader Prashant Kishore issued an ultimatum to the Bihar government, demanding a resolution to the concerns of BPSC aspirants within three days. Addressing students at Gardanibagh in Patna, Kishore condemned the alleged police action and urged the government to take immediate steps.
“The government should meet with student representatives and consider their demand for a re-examination. Yesterday, a student tragically took their own life, which is deeply unfortunate. The government must immediately announce a compensation of ₹10,00,000 for the bereaved family,” Kishore demanded.
He warned that failure to resolve the issue within three days would prompt him to join the protests directly.
“This is my ultimatum to the government: if the issue remains unresolved and the students continue their protests, I will lead from the front,” Kishore declared.