Opposition members protest outside Bihar Assembly on February 19, 2026. Photo: Neeraj Kumar
By Neeraj Kumar
Patna: The suicide of a schoolgirl allegedly denied entry to her matriculation examination due to a brief delay has triggered a major political row in Bihar. The Leader of the Opposition in the Bihar Legislative Council, Rabri Devi, launched a scathing attack on the state government, demanding strict action against those responsible for the girl’s death.
Speaking to reporters, the former Chief Minister said the law-and-order situation in Bihar had deteriorated sharply. “She was just five minutes late and was not allowed to appear for the examination. Shocked by this, the girl ended her life. What would have gone wrong if she had been allowed to enter?” she asked.
Rabri Devi held both the government and the examination authorities responsible for the incident, stating that those at fault must face stringent action. She urged the government to ensure that students are not barred from entering examination halls over minor delays.
Referring to the incident, she said the girl was traumatised after being denied entry and later died after being hit by a train. “Is being five minutes late such a grave offence? She should have been forgiven and allowed in. Action must be taken against those who stopped her. What action has been taken so far? We demand accountability,” Rabri Devi said.
On the 13th day of the Bihar Legislature’s budget session, opposition members also created an uproar over the rising crime rate in the state. Rabri Devi criticised the government over the NEET aspirant murder case and questioned the effectiveness of prohibition, asking how liquor continues to enter Bihar from border areas despite a complete ban. She alleged that the government avoids answering questions and suppresses the Opposition’s voice in the House, calling it “dictatorial”.
According to reports, on the first day of the matriculation examination, the body of a girl was found near a railway track in Masaurhi, on the outskirts of Patna. She was identified as Komal, a resident of Maharajchak village. Her father alleged that she was denied entry at the examination centre in Barni due to a delay, following which she took the extreme step.
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