Student agitation intensifies in Jharkhand; hunger strike begins.
Ranchi. Student protests in Jharkhand regarding alleged irregularities in competitive examinations—including the JPSC and JSSC CGL—are intensifying. Large numbers of students are taking to the streets to demand transparency in the examination process and an impartial inquiry. Amidst this, student leader Devendra Nath Mahto began an indefinite hunger strike on Sunday at the Jaipal Singh Munda Stadium in Ranchi.
Student leaders state that the recurring alleged irregularities in competitive exams are eroding the confidence of aspirants. Protesters are demanding complete transparency in the examination process and a fair investigation into the cases where irregularities have been alleged.
The movement is expected to gain further momentum following Devendra Nath Mahto’s decision to go on a hunger strike. His supporters and a large number of students arrived at the venue to back the agitation. The protesters have declared that the movement will continue until the government seriously considers their demands.
The students’ key demands include enhancing transparency in the competitive examination process, investigating alleged irregularities, and taking action against those found guilty. Students allege that flaws in the examination system disadvantage hardworking aspirants and jeopardize their futures.
The protesting students have also demanded a dialogue with the Jharkhand government. They insist that the government must seriously listen to the students’ grievances and take concrete steps to resolve them. The students have appealed to the Hemant Soren-led government to intervene in the matter.
During the protests, students also organized a torchlight procession in Ranchi. Carrying torches, they demanded reforms in the examination system and justice. As they marched, the students raised slogans to voice their demands. The protesters maintain that their movement is not driven by political motives but is aimed at securing the students’ future and ensuring a fair examination system.
Student leaders alleged that persistent controversies surrounding competitive examinations in the state are fueling frustration and anger among aspirants. They argue that while young people prepare for competitive exams with the hope of securing employment, their confidence is undermined when the examination process itself comes under scrutiny.
Meanwhile, the administration is closely monitoring the protest situation. Police forces have been deployed at protest sites to ensure security. Officials state that maintaining law and order is the priority and necessary measures are being taken to handle any situation.
This student agitation has intensified at a time when the aspirations of the youth in Jharkhand regarding government jobs and competitive examinations are high. A large number of young people in the state prepare for selection into government services; consequently, any issue regarding irregularities in the examination process resonates strongly among the students.
Student organizations maintain that mere assurances regarding improvements to the examination system are insufficient; the government must take concrete policy measures. They have demanded the implementation of a system for all future competitive examinations that ensures fair opportunities for candidates.
Leaders of the movement have stated their willingness to engage in dialogue with the government, provided there is clear action on their demands. They emphasize that the students’ grievances cannot be ignored and urge the government to take immediate steps toward a resolution.
For now, the student protest in Ranchi continues, with students steadily gathering in support of Devendra Nath Mahto, who is on a hunger strike. The future course of the movement will depend on the government’s response and any initiatives taken for dialogue.
This ongoing agitation regarding competitive examinations in Jharkhand has once again brought the issues of the examination system’s credibility and transparency to the forefront. All eyes are now on the government to see what steps will be taken regarding the students’ demands.
