Political and community leaders urge the government to reschedule the exam
PATNA — Anxiety is rising among Muslim students in Bihar as the Combined Entrance Competitive Examination Board (BCECEB) has scheduled a major entrance exam on Eid-Al-Azha, an important Muslim festival. Admit cards have already been issued, but the timing has caused worry among students and parents.
Political and community leaders have written to Chief Minister Nitish Kumar demanding that the 7 June exam date be postponed. They argue that holding the test on a religious holiday causes unnecessary stress and affects students’ rights to celebrate the festival with their families.
Legislative Council member Afaq Ahmed expressed his concern, saying, “Eid-Al-Azha comes once a year. All the holidays are listed in the official calendar. Even then, such a mistake is made, and anxiety is created among Muslim children.” The exam date should be changed so Muslim children can celebrate Eid with their families,” he said.
Rashtriya Janata Dal leader and council member Qari Sohaib also wrote a letter to the chief minister demanding a new exam date. He said, “The board members probably do not even look at the official calendar while fixing the date of any exam. Holding an exam on a festival day is beyond understanding.” He further stated, “Fixing the exam on Eid is like playing with the religious feelings of Muslims.”
Maulana Amanat Hussain, General Secretary of Majlis Ulema wa Khutba Imamia Bihar, also criticised the decision. “Eid-Al-Azha is one of the biggest festivals for Muslims. Yet the exam is held on this day. Our brothers and sisters share in this joy, but children will face a lot of difficulties. The government should change the date,” he said.
Community leaders have sent a joint letter to the BCECE Board Chairperson, Wazir Ali, asking for a change in the exam date. They said students need time to prepare and celebrate without fear or worry.
The government has yet to respond to these demands. Many hope the authorities will listen and reschedule the exam to respect religious sentiments and support students’ well-being.
