Bihar Student Protests Over SI Exam Cancellation and JDU Internal Rift Surface After MLC Polls

Student Protests Erupt in Patna

Bihar has witnessed renewed student demonstrations following the cancellation of the recruitment examination designated for 1,799 sub-inspector (SI) posts. Candidates affected by the cancellation took to the streets in Patna to voice their grievances.

• Protesters assembled at JP Golambar to demand justice and the release of examination outcomes.
• Police personnel deployed barricades to restrict movement, stopping candidates who attempted to push past security lines.
• Demonstrators raised slogans calling for the swift fulfilment of their demands.

JDU Faces Internal Tensions Following MLC Election Results

Simultaneously, the recent Legislative Council (MLC) election results have highlighted internal disagreements within the ruling Janata Dal (United). Senior JDU leader Neeraj Kumar secured a victory in the Patna Graduate constituency for the fourth consecutive time. However, the win was overshadowed by public complaints regarding party dynamics.

• Neeraj Kumar publicly expressed disappointment that Union Minister Lalan Singh did not call to congratulate him on his consecutive victory.
• He acknowledged receiving calls from other senior figures, including Ram Nath Thakur, both Deputy Chief Ministers, Sanjay Jha, Vashishtha Narayan Singh, and Nishant Kumar.
• Neeraj Kumar alleged that he faced political and mental harassment throughout the election process and asserted that he would respond to the treatment accordingly.
• He further claimed that efforts were made by Anant Singh to defeat him, while the candidate from Jan Suraaj secured the third position in the constituency.

Electoral Outcomes and Party Stance

Beyond the Patna Graduate seat, the broader MLC election results presented a mixed picture for the party, with JDU losing the Tirhut Graduate, Saran Teacher, and Darbhanga Teacher constituencies. These outcomes have drawn attention to alleged differences between factions aligned with Lalan Singh and Sanjay Jha.

In response to the developments, JDU working president Sanjay Jha defended the party's internal structure and discipline. He stated that organizational decisions are collectively evaluated and receive final approval from Chief Minister Nitish Kumar.

Practical Implications and Verification

Observers and candidates seeking verified updates are advised to monitor official announcements from the Bihar police recruitment authorities and formal party communications from JDU. Independent verification of political claims remains essential as party factions navigate these post-election developments.