Police deploy water cannons as Bihar exam protest escalates

Police in Bihar deployed water cannons and made multiple arrests on Tuesday as protesters attempted to march towards the governor's residence in what has become an intensifying dispute over the integrity of a major recruitment examination.

The demonstrators are calling for the cancellation of the civil services exam, citing concerns over leaked test question papers and other procedural violations. The use of force marks an escalation in tensions surrounding the examination process, which has drawn widespread criticism from job aspirants and civil rights groups across the eastern state.

Authorities detained dozens of protesters during the march, according to police statements. The incident reflects growing frustration among candidates and the public over alleged administrative failures and security lapses in the recruitment process.

The controversy has intensified scrutiny of examination protocols in India's civil services recruitment, with campaigners demanding accountability and systemic reforms. Officials have not yet indicated whether the examination will proceed as scheduled or face suspension pending an investigation into the alleged irregularities.