Fri Dec 13 16:00:32 UTC 2024: ## Patna DM Slaps BPSC Exam Candidate Amidst Chaos and Allegations of Irregularities

**Patna, Bihar, December 13, 2024** – The Bihar Public Service Commission (BPSC) preliminary Combined Competitive Examination (CCE) 2024 was marred by chaos and controversy on Friday, culminating in a video showing Patna’s District Magistrate (DM), Dr. Chandrashekhar Singh, slapping a protesting candidate. While the BPSC chairman, Parmar Ravi Manubhai, vehemently denied allegations of a paper leak, the incident sparked widespread outrage on social media.

Over 4 lakh candidates appeared for the exam across 912 centres statewide. However, the Bapu Pariksha Bhavan in Patna became the focal point of unrest. Candidates reported irregularities, primarily a 15-minute delay in receiving question papers at one centre, leading to protests. The DM’s actions, captured on video, further fueled the controversy. The video shows him striking a student while ordering the crowd to disperse.

The DM, in a statement, attributed the disruption to the delayed distribution of question papers due to mismanagement at the centre. He explained that while efforts were made to calm the protesters, the situation escalated, necessitating police intervention to clear a roadblock. He claimed the use of force was minimal and intended to restore order, denying any intention to harm candidates. Tragically, a centre superintendent suffered a fatal heart attack amidst the chaos, and a female candidate fainted, though she later recovered.

The BPSC chairman, however, maintained that there was no paper leak, stating that the protests began only after candidates were seated and isolated from external influence. He acknowledged complaints about changes in the question pattern but insisted these were addressed promptly. The exam, he added, was monitored using advanced technology.

The incident has triggered intense debate online, with many questioning the appropriateness of the DM’s actions. One comment, highlighting the perceived abuse of power, stated: “No one has the right to slap anybody.”

Investigations are likely to follow, focusing not only on the alleged irregularities during the exam but also on the DM’s conduct and the overall management of the examination centre. The BPSC has committed to strict action against those found spreading rumors to disrupt the examination process.

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