Patna District Magistrate, Dr. Chandrashekhar Singh, has defended the detention of 43 individuals, including political strategist Prashant Kishor, during protests over BPSC exams. Singh stated that the protest at Gandhi Maidan was illegal and despite warnings, protesters refused to vacate. An FIR was filed and 15 vehicles were seized. Verification has shown that 30 out of the 43 detained individuals were not students, and Dr. Singh has warned of strict action against any future illegal protests.
BPSC Exam Protest: Mass Detention Draws Outrage
In the wake of the detention of 43 individuals, including political strategist Prashant Kishor, during protests over the Bihar Public Service Commission (BPSC) exams, Patna District Magistrate Dr. Chandrashekhar Singh has defended the decision, citing illegal gatherings and refusal to disperse despite warnings.
Background
The BPSC exam protests erupted due to allegations of irregularities and discrepancies in the selection process. Candidates, claiming to have qualified the exam, accused the commission of unfair practices and demanded a probe. Protests intensified at Gandhi Maidan in Patna, where police used water cannons and batons to disperse the crowd.
Detention and Defense
On August 30, 2022, 43 protesters, including Prashant Kishor, were detained. Dr. Singh stated that the gathering was illegal and posed a law and order situation. He claimed that despite warnings, protesters refused to vacate, leading to the use of force. An FIR was registered, and 15 vehicles were seized.
Singh further revealed that verification showed that 30 of the detained individuals were not students. He warned of strict action against any future illegal protests, emphasizing the need to maintain law and order.
Outrage and Criticism
The mass detention of protesters has drawn criticism from various quarters, with allegations of high-handedness and infringement of democratic rights. Prashant Kishor himself has condemned the action, calling it "unconstitutional" and a "blatant violation of civil liberties."
Key Questions and Answers
1. Why were the protests held?
The protests were sparked by allegations of irregularities in the BPSC exam selection process. Candidates claimed to have qualified the exam but were not selected.
2. Was the gathering illegal?
According to the Patna District Magistrate, the gathering at Gandhi Maidan was illegal due to the absence of necessary permissions.
3. Why was Prashant Kishor detained?
Prashant Kishor was detained for allegedly inciting and participating in the illegal protest. He has since been released on bail.
4. What action has been taken against the protesters?
An FIR has been registered, and 30 of the detained individuals, who were not students, have been charged.
5. What are the future implications of this incident?
The incident has raised questions about the right to protest and the use of force by law enforcement in India. It is expected to have implications for future protests and the relationship between the government and its citizens.
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