Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren has expressed the state government’s commitment to addressing the grievances of students amid ongoing protests over alleged irregularities in the 14th Jharkhand Public Service Commission (JPSC) Combined Civil Services Examination and the Jharkhand Staff Selection Commission (JSSC) Combined Graduate Level Examination. Soren assured the public that the state administration is attentive to the concerns being raised by candidates and is committed to delivering justice following a thorough investigation.

During a press interaction, Soren stated, “The government has eyes and ears; it is sensitive to the issues faced by students.” He emphasised the meticulous nature of the ongoing investigation and affirmed that the findings would be made available to students and the broader community once completed. His statements aimed to instil confidence among candidates that their issues will not be ignored.

Furthermore, the Chief Minister indicated that the necessary measures to support students would be implemented, promising that the state’s administration would communicate the outcome of the investigation promptly. Soren’s remarks reflect an understanding of the angst among students, who are seeking reassurance amid the turmoil surrounding the examination processes.

Ongoing Student Protests

In a related development, five students have initiated a hunger strike at the Jaipal Singh Munda Stadium in Ranchi as part of their protests against the alleged irregularities surrounding the examinations. The group has planned a march to commemorate the death anniversary of Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) founder Shibu Soren, albeit primarily to draw attention to their situation.

Protesters articulated their motivations, stating that today’s observance serves as a tribute and an opportunity to highlight their cause. One protester noted, “We are here today following in the footsteps of our source of inspiration.” The group aims to leverage this situation to urge the Chief Minister to take decisive action regarding their demands related to the examinations.

The indefinite hunger strike, which began on August 1, was led by student leader Devendra Nath Mahato, who has vocally pushed for accountability regarding the recruitment process. The demonstrators are calling for the cancellation of the Preliminary Test for the JPSC Combined Civil Services Examination and a comprehensive review of the examinations held through TDPL agencies.

Government’s Position on Examination Transparency

In response to the ongoing protests, JMM leader Manoj Pandey has assured that strict actions will be taken against individuals responsible for any discrepancies in the examination process. Pandey emphasised that the state government is resolute in dealing with those implicated and has promised complete cooperation with investigating authorities.

Pandey went on to assert that the Hemant Soren administration would not allow any culpable parties to evade justice. He maintained that the state’s investigative agencies possess the necessary competence to manage such inquiries without the involvement of central bodies like the CBI. “We want justice for the students, and they should trust our state’s agencies,” he stated.

As part of the ongoing investigative efforts, the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) has already apprehended 11 individuals in connection with the JPSC paper leak incident. Notably, JPSC Chairman L Khiangte has submitted his resignation amid the unfolding events. This situation reflects the broader concerns regarding transparency and fairness in the recruitment examinations within the state.

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