Ongoing Student Protests in Jharkhand: Government and Students Fail to Reach Agreement

Negotiations Between Students and Government Conclude

On Sunday, the sixth round of discussions between students protesting against recruitment exam irregularities in Jharkhand and the state government came to an end. The lengthy meeting lasted approximately five hours and covered several critical topics. The primary demand from the students was to hand over the investigation of the exams to the CBI, but no consensus was reached on this matter.

CID and ED to Investigate Irregularities

Following the meeting, Jharkhand Minister Sudivya Kumar Sonu announced that, under the direction of Chief Minister Hemant Soren, the government has opted for a dual investigation approach. The CID will probe the criminal aspects of the irregularities in the 14th JPSC and backlog recruitments, while the ED will be requested to investigate cases of illegal financial transactions. Additionally, a fast-track court will be established to expedite the resolution of these cases, with a commitment to file charges within 90 days. A committee of experts from IIT-ISM, IIM Ranchi, and XLRI will also be formed to suggest future reforms.

Government's Stance on CGL Exam Cancellation

The minister clarified that the demand to cancel the CGL exam cannot be fulfilled, as it was conducted under the directives of the High Court and Supreme Court, and successful candidates have already been appointed. The government does not possess the authority to unilaterally annul the exam. A proposal was made to form a committee led by a retired judge to oversee the investigation, which the students rejected. The government believes it has accepted 98% of the students' demands.

Students Firm on CBI Inquiry Demand

In contrast, student leader Kunal stated after discussions with government representatives that the protest will continue. He emphasized, "Our main demand is for a CBI inquiry, and we will not compromise on this issue." He announced that the planned peaceful assembly at the Jharkhand Assembly on August 10 will proceed as scheduled.

Student Protest Update

#WATCH | Ranchi, Jharkhand: JPSC-JSCC aspirants' protest | After meeting with representatives of the government, Kunal a student leader says, "Let me clarify that our Vidhan Sabha gherao will continue peacefully. Our demand is for a CBI inquiry; we will not compromise on that." pic.twitter.com/u0HenTgpOg

— News Media (@NewsMedia) August 9, 2026