Jharkhand Students Intensify Hunger Strike Over Exam Leak Allegations, Demand Recruitment Reforms

The ongoing student protest in Ranchi, Jharkhand, has intensified as four aspirants continue an indefinite hunger strike over alleged irregularities in recruitment examinations conducted by the Jharkhand Public Service Commission (JPSC) and the Jharkhand Staff Selection Commission (JSSC).

The hunger strike, which began on August 2 at Jaipal Singh Munda Stadium, is part of a larger movement demanding transparency in recruitment, timely examinations and an independent probe into alleged examination irregularities.

Key Highlights

• Four students are on an indefinite hunger strike in Ranchi.
• Protesters allege irregularities in JPSC and JSSC recruitment examinations.
• Students demand transparent recruitment and a fixed examination calendar.
• Political parties have been kept away from the protest stage.
• Demonstrations continue despite limited mainstream media attention.

Students Continue Indefinite Hunger Strike

Two male and two female aspirants began an indefinite hunger strike on August 2, stating that repeated allegations of paper leaks and recruitment delays have affected thousands of candidates preparing for government jobs.

According to student representatives, the agitation aims to seek accountability and restore confidence in Jharkhand's recruitment process.

Student leader Devendra Nath Mahto said the prolonged protest has taken a physical and emotional toll on participants but maintained that the movement would continue until meaningful action is taken.

Key Demands of the Protesters

The protesting students are demanding:

• A transparent recruitment process.
• A fixed examination and recruitment calendar.
• Independent investigation into alleged examination irregularities.
• Timely conduct of recruitment examinations.
• Greater accountability in recruitment agencies.

The protesters argue that repeated controversies have disrupted the careers of thousands of government job aspirants.

Sonam Wangchuk Extends Support

Social activist Sonam Wangchuk interacted with student leader Devendra Nath Mahto through a video call and appealed to him to at least stay hydrated while continuing the protest.

The interaction has drawn attention on social media, with several users expressing concern over the health of the fasting students.

Protest Maintains Political Distance

Organisers have maintained that the movement remains non-political, with political parties not being allowed to address the gathering or share the protest stage.

According to the organisers, the focus remains solely on recruitment reforms and ensuring fairness in competitive examinations.

Controversy Surrounding CJP Leadership

The protest has also witnessed controversy involving CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke.

While Dipke has publicly expressed support for the students' demands, some protesters questioned the organisation's role after photographs surfaced showing him alongside colleagues, including Ashutosh Ranka, Ratna Singh and Saurav Das, at a meeting in Maharashtra despite earlier citing health-related reasons for their absence.

The criticism has triggered debate among sections of the protest movement, although the primary demands of the agitation remain unchanged.

FAQs

Why are students protesting in Jharkhand?

Students are protesting over alleged irregularities in JPSC and JSSC recruitment examinations, including allegations of paper leaks and delays.

Where is the protest taking place?

The indefinite hunger strike is being held at Jaipal Singh Munda Stadium in Ranchi.

What are the students demanding?

They are seeking transparent recruitment, a fixed examination calendar and an independent investigation into alleged examination irregularities.

Are political parties participating?

No. Protest organisers have stated that political parties are not being allowed to share the protest platform.