BJP leader Shahnawaz Hussain has accused the INDI Alliance of exhibiting “double standards” in their response to the ongoing protests by students in Jharkhand. He pointed out that while they have been vocal about similar issues in Delhi and Uttar Pradesh, their silence regarding the Jharkhand situation raises questions. Speaking to ANI, Hussain stated that the opposition’s concerns appear to be politically motivated, changing based on which party holds power in a state.

Hussain specifically highlighted the silence of prominent opposition leaders, including Rahul Gandhi, in relation to the student protests in Jharkhand, which are led by the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM). He emphasised that the public deserves to understand this inconsistency and urged the people of Jharkhand to question the motivations behind the opposition’s responses.

According to Hussain, the INDI Alliance’s members are neglecting the pressing issues faced by students in Jharkhand. He noted that while Rahul Gandhi aims to host a ‘Chhatron ki Goonj’ (Voice of Students) event in Prayagraj, there is conspicuous silence on the ongoing plight of students in Jharkhand. “The citizens of Jharkhand are observing this contradiction,” he remarked.

Ongoing Protests by Students in Jharkhand

The protests in Jharkhand commenced following the announcement of results for the 14th Jharkhand Public Service Commission (JPSC) Civil Services Preliminary Examination on July 5. Aspirants have alleged irregularities throughout the recruitment process, prompting extensive demonstrations and an indefinite sit-in by students who are demanding clarity and responsibility from the authorities.

The protesters are calling for the cancellation of the Preliminary Test for the 14th JPSC Combined Civil Services Examination and a reassessment of examinations conducted through TDPL agencies. The intensity of the protests has prompted a dedicated delegation of students to engage in dialogue with representatives of the Jharkhand government to address their demands.

Student leader Devendra Nath Mahto reiterated that the core demands of the protestors remain steadfast, regardless of the discussions held with government representatives. Mahto mentioned that a dialogue was scheduled for 10 am at the Circuit House. He stressed that had the government responded appropriately to earlier meetings, further dialogue would not have been necessary.

Student Demands and Government Engagement

At the Jaipal Singh Munda Stadium in Ranchi, protesters have outlined several specific demands including the annulment of all JSSC CGL, JSSC JE, and PGT examinations post-2019. They are also seeking a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) inquiry into the alleged irregularities and strict action against those involved in malpractice.

Furthermore, the protesters have called for increased transparency in the selection process, asking for the disclosure of category-wise cut-offs, OMR copies, and response sheets. They propose adopting a recruitment calendar consistent with standards set by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) and Staff Selection Commission (SSC).

The JPSC JSSC Reform Manch, which leads the ongoing demonstrations, has established an 11-member delegation that will engage with the Jharkhand government regarding their demands. This delegation includes eight student representatives, a lawyer, and two technical experts, all aiming to facilitate productive discussions on the issues at hand.

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