Prashant Kishor Arrested: BPSC Exam Controversy Takes Center Stage

A Hunger Strike Turns into Arrest

On January 6, 2025, political strategist and Jan Suraaj Party leader Prashant Kishor was arrested while sitting on an indefinite hunger strike in Patna. Kishor was demanding the cancellation of the 70th Bihar Public Service Commission (BPSC) Combined (Preliminary) Competitive Examination (CCE) following allegations of a paper leak. The Patna Civil Court granted him bail on a personal bond of ₹25,000, but Kishor refused to sign the bail bond, leading to his 14-day judicial custody:cite[1].

The BPSC Exam Controversy

The BPSC exam, a crucial gateway for thousands of aspirants seeking government jobs in Bihar, has been mired in controversy. Allegations of a paper leak have sparked outrage among students and political leaders alike. Kishor’s hunger strike was aimed at pressuring the government to address these allegations and ensure transparency in the examination process. His arrest has only intensified the debate, with many questioning the state government’s handling of the situation:cite[1].

Political Implications

Prashant Kishor, known for his role as a political strategist for major parties across India, has recently shifted to active politics with his Jan Suraaj Party. His arrest has drawn attention to the growing discontent over corruption and inefficiency in Bihar’s administrative systems. Critics argue that the state government’s response to the BPSC controversy reflects a broader failure to address systemic issues in education and governance:cite[1].

Public Reaction

The arrest has sparked widespread protests across Bihar, with students and opposition parties rallying in support of Kishor. Many see his hunger strike as a bold stand against corruption, while others view it as a political stunt. The controversy has also reignited discussions about the need for reforms in competitive examinations to prevent leaks and ensure fairness:cite[1].

Looking Ahead

As Prashant Kishor remains in judicial custody, the BPSC exam controversy continues to dominate headlines. The incident highlights the challenges faced by aspirants in a system plagued by corruption and inefficiency. It also underscores the growing influence of leaders like Kishor, who are willing to take bold steps to demand accountability. Whether this controversy will lead to meaningful reforms remains to be seen, but it has undoubtedly shaken the political landscape of Bihar:cite[1].