Patna, August 22: PhD degree holders and research scholars in Bihar have been on a hunger strike for the past 18 days, protesting issues related to higher education, youth employment, and the academic future of researchers. On Saturday, they attempted to march towards Lok Bhawan.
Under the banner of the All PhD Holders and Research Scholars Association of Bihar, a large group of protesters carrying the national flag marched from Gardani Bagh towards Lok Bhawan, aiming to make their demands heard. Anticipating the march, police were already stationed near the R-Block and set up barricades to prevent the protesters from advancing.
In response, the protesters climbed the barricades and began chanting slogans in support of their demands. To maintain order, police deployed extensive security measures, including water cannons. The protesters’ presence on the road caused significant traffic disruptions around R-Block for several hours. However, police reported that vehicle movement continued from the southern flank.
Patna’s SP of Law and Order, Krishna Murari Prasad, stated that the protest was primarily led by guest lecturers, PhD holders, and research scholars in the final stages of their PhD programs. He noted that the movement is being led by Kumud Patel, who has been on a hunger strike for the past 17 days. The protesters were demanding access to Lok Bhawan from Gardani Bagh, but the area beyond R-Block is considered sensitive, housing important institutions like the High Court and the Income Tax Office. This is why the protesters were stopped at R-Block.
The SP mentioned that the protesters were urged to send a five-member delegation to present their demands to the government. The protesters expressed their desire to submit a memorandum at the Chief Minister‘s office, leading to arrangements for a delegation to be sent through a magistrate. He added that police have now appealed to the protest leaders to peacefully conclude their demonstration and disperse. So far, the protesters have maintained a peaceful stance and have not crossed the police barricades.
Meanwhile, the protesters remain steadfast in their demands, insisting that the government must take concrete steps to enhance employment opportunities in higher education, address the issues faced by guest lecturers, and secure the academic future of PhD holders and research scholars.
Leave a Comment