Bihar Intermediate Exams Begin Amid Security Controversies and Administrative Lapses
The commencement of the Intermediate examinations conducted by the Bihar School Examination Board (BSEB) on Monday was marked by widespread complaints over stringent security measures, alleged administrative lapses, and isolated irregularities, leaving thousands of students distressed across several districts.
Stringent Security Measures Spark Student Distress
To curb malpractices such as the smuggling of electronic gadgets or written notes, authorities enforced strict frisking protocols at examination centres. Candidates were asked to leave behind shoes, belts, pencil cases, and pouches outside the halls. At centres in districts, including Gopalganj, Jamui, and Patna, many students were compelled to appear for the three-hour examination barefoot on cold floors.
Security checks sparked tension at the Shastri Nagar examination centre in Patna when Muslim female candidates alleged they were asked to remove their hijabs during verification. In contrast, some model examination centres reserved exclusively for female candidates in Patna offered a more facilitative environment, with female staff managing security checks. At these centres, girls were welcomed with tilak marks, while the premises were decorated with flowers and balloons to ease exam-day anxiety.
Administrative Errors and Protests
There were allegations of administrative errors that compounded the difficulties faced by students. At one Patna centre, students and parents staged a protest alleging that admit cards carried incorrect examination centre addresses. As a result, several candidates reportedly reached the wrong locations, leading to severe delays and causing some to miss the examination altogether.
The situation escalated after repeated pleas went unaddressed, culminating in damage to the vehicle of a district official. This incident highlighted the growing frustration among examinees and their families over perceived mismanagement by the examination authorities.
Unusual Incidents and Punctuality Norms
In Jehanabad district's Shakurabad area under Ratanpur block, an unusual scene unfolded when two candidates lodged in judicial custody were brought to the examination centre in handcuffs under police escort, following court orders permitting them to take the exam. A similar instance was reported from another centre in Jehanabad. After thorough verification, authorities allowed the candidates to appear for the examination, in line with BSEB policy allowing eligible examinees, including those in custody, to sit for the tests.
Strict adherence to punctuality norms were maintained across various centres. At several locations, candidates arriving even two minutes late were denied entry. In Nalanda, students were seen scaling gates in an attempt to gain access. In Begusarai, late-arriving female candidates broke down in tears after being barred, while protests intensified, prompting police to resort to a mild lathicharge to disperse the crowd and restore order.
Impact on Students and Examination Environment
The combination of rigorous security protocols, administrative oversights, and strict timing enforcement created a challenging environment for many students. While the intent behind the measures was to ensure fairness and integrity in the examination process, the implementation led to significant discomfort and anxiety among participants.
The contrasting experiences between regular centres and model centres for female candidates underscored the importance of sensitive handling during such high-pressure events. As the examination period continues, students and parents are calling for more balanced approaches that maintain security without compromising on student welfare and dignity.
