Intensified Protests Erupt Over Recruitment Exam Irregularities in Jharkhand

Protests in Jharkhand have surged as candidates voice their concerns over alleged irregularities in recruitment exams. With five individuals, including two women, initiating an indefinite hunger strike, the situation has drawn significant attention. Protesters are demanding the cancellation of the 14th JPSC exam and reforms within the JSSC, alongside calls for an independent investigation. The Chief Minister has acknowledged their concerns, promising timely decisions. As tensions rise, the JPSC has postponed upcoming examinations, while the CID continues its investigation into the matter. This unfolding situation highlights the urgent need for action and justice in the recruitment process.

By Narendra Chaudhary Aug 5, 2026, 14:31 IST

Protests Escalate in Jharkhand

Ranchi, August 5 - Protests against alleged irregularities in recruitment examinations in Jharkhand have intensified, with five individuals, including two women, commencing an indefinite hunger strike ahead of the state assembly's monsoon session starting Thursday. These five protesters began their hunger strike on Tuesday night at the Jaipal Singh Munda Stadium under the banner of the JPSC, JSSC Reforms Forum, raising the total number of individuals on hunger strike to six. Meanwhile, Devendra Nath Mahto, a member of the Jharkhand Democratic Revolutionary Front, continued his sit-in protest for the fourth consecutive day at the same location.

Demands for Examination Reforms

For the past ten days, both groups have been demanding the cancellation of the 14th Jharkhand Public Service Commission (JPSC) exam and reforms within the Jharkhand Staff Selection Commission (JSSC). Additionally, they are calling for an independent investigation into the alleged irregularities in the recruitment exams by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) or retired judges from outside the state’s high court. Life Kumar, a spokesperson for the JPSC, JSSC Reforms Forum, stated that five of their members, including two women, have been on hunger strike since Tuesday night in support of their demands.

Plans for a Tricolor March

A core committee meeting will soon be convened to decide on organizing a tricolor march in support of the students' demands. One of the women on hunger strike, Sabita Kumari, expressed that they felt compelled to protest in this manner due to the government's failure to address their demands. Another protester, Habiba, remarked, 'The Chief Minister is like a guardian to us. When children are hungry, it pains the guardians as well. Therefore, we hope he will pay attention to our grievances and demands.' She added that while the Chief Minister claims the government is sensitive, they seek action and justice rather than mere assurances.

Government's Response

On Tuesday, Chief Minister Hemant Soren acknowledged the concerns of the protesting job aspirants, stating that appropriate decisions would be made at the right time. He assured reporters in Ranchi that decisions related to resolving their demands and questions would be announced after thorough examination and seriousness. 'I believe the protesters will be reassured by this,' he said. In connection with the alleged irregularities, the Jharkhand Police's Crime Investigation Department (CID) has arrested 14 individuals so far.

Examination Postponed Amid Protests

Amid the escalating protests, the JPSC has postponed the joint civil services main examination originally scheduled for July 25 to 27, citing unavoidable circumstances. Since July 28, the CID has interrogated former JPSC chairman L. Khiangte four times regarding the alleged irregularities in the recruitment processes. Additionally, raids have been conducted at 18 locations across the state, including Ranchi, Palamu, Hazaribagh, Bokaro, and Dhanbad.