Protesters are demanding greater transparency, cancellation of certain exams and an independent probe into alleged irregularities
New Delhi: The students’ protest over alleged irregularities in Jharkhand recruitment examinations entered its 20th day on Thursday, with protesters continuing their agitation at Jaipal Singh Munda Stadium in Ranchi.
The JPSC-JSSC Reforms Manch is demanding greater transparency in recruitment examinations, cancellation of several tests and an independent investigation by the CBI or a panel of retired judges from outside Jharkhand. Six rounds of talks between the state government and student representatives have so far failed to break the deadlock.
Former chief minister Raghubar Das has threatened to launch a hunger strike if the demand for a CBI probe is not accepted within a week. He has also sought Rs 1 crore compensation for the families of each of the 19 people who died during the 2024 excise constable physical examination.
The agitation has also triggered a political confrontation. The BJP has accused the Hemant Soren government of suppressing the movement, while the Congress has accused the BJP of politicising the protest.
Tensions escalated on Monday when demonstrators marching towards the state Assembly clashed with police. Security personnel used batons, water cannons and tear gas to disperse the protesters.
Meanwhile, JLKM leader Devendra Nath Mahto and four students on hunger strike are undergoing treatment at a hospital.
Chief Minister Hemant Soren has maintained that his government is committed to recruitment reforms and assured protesters that the 14th JPSC examination would be cancelled.
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