Patna, Bihar — Students protesting alleged irregularities in the Bihar Public Service Commission (BPSC) examinations broke through police barricades on Tuesday, leading to clashes with officers who responded with water cannons, according to NDTV.
The confrontation unfolded as demonstrators pushed past barriers, with stones thrown from the crowd, the outlet reported. Police used water cannons to disperse the protesters, and video footage showed the tense standoff between the two sides.
The protests are tied to ongoing grievances over the BPSC exam process. The Times of India reported that the unrest has been fueled by exam-related issues, as well as a controversial remark described as a "dogs bark" comment, which has added to the anger among students. The specific origin of that remark was not detailed in the available reporting.
The Hindu described the scene as involving stone-pelting and a lathi-charge, alongside the use of water cannons, marking a significant escalation in the demonstrations. Telegraph India’s photo coverage showed students breaching barricades and continuing their protest despite the police response, with rain adding to the chaotic atmosphere.
The protests in Patna are the latest in a series of student demonstrations over the BPSC examination process, which has faced scrutiny for alleged irregularities. The authorities have not yet issued a formal statement on Tuesday’s clashes, according to the reports reviewed.
What to watch next: Whether the state government announces any concrete steps to address the students’ demands or if the protests will expand to other districts in Bihar.
