Bihar job aspirants protest in Patna over delay in STET

A large group of job seekers gathered in Patna on Aug 18 demanding that the State Teacher Eligibility Test (STET) be conducted before the Bihar Public Service Commission’s upcoming Teachers Recruitment Examination (TRE-5).

The demonstration, held near Dak Bungalow crossing, was led by aspiring teachers and caused heavy traffic jams in the city.

Police said protesters ignored repeated requests to clear the roads, leading to tense moments during the agitation.

The candidates argued that the state had committed to holding STET twice a year under its examination calendar, but the first round for 2025 has not yet taken place. Many said the delay was jeopardizing their career prospects.

“We demand that the State Teacher Eligibility Test (STET) be conducted before the Bihar Public Service Commission’s Teachers Recruitment Exam (TRE-5). As per the examination calendar, STET was to be held twice a year. However, the first round of the eligibility test has not been conducted so far. This delay is affecting those who completed their BEd,” said Amit Kumar, a protester from Patna.

Patna (Central) Superintendent of Police Diksha said trouble broke out when protesters attempted to push through police barricades.

“They tried to breach the police barricades. Despite security personnel’s repeated requests, they refused to vacate the roads. Mild force was used to disperse protesters at Dak Bungalow crossing,” she said.

The protest disrupted traffic in central Patna, forcing commuters to take diversions. Officials later confirmed that the situation was under control, though security in the area remained tight.

The demonstration is the latest in a series of protests by job aspirants in Bihar over delays in recruitment and exam schedules.

Many participants warned they would continue pressing for their demands until the state government announces a clear timeline for STET.

For young graduates, the outcome of the exam is seen as a crucial step toward securing jobs in the education sector.