ISLAMABAD: Student-led protests against irregularities in recruitment examinations in India’s eastern state of Jharkhand have entered their sixth consecutive day, as demonstrators intensify their demands for an independent investigation, cancellation of the 14th Jharkhand Public Service Commission (JPSC) examination, and reforms of the state’s recruitment agencies.

According to India Today, what began as a small gathering at Ranchi’s Vapu Batika ground over alleged paper leaks and recruitment irregularities has evolved into a large-scale movement, drawing support from students across the state, political parties, and civil society organizations.

The protests are centered on allegations of wrongdoing in examinations conducted by the Jharkhand Public Service Commission (JPSC) and the Jharkhand Staff Selection Commission (JSSC).

Demonstrators accuse the authorities of failing to ensure transparency in the recruitment process.

The Hindu reported that hundreds of students continued their sit-in protest in Ranchi for the fifth consecutive day on Sunday, demanding a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the alleged irregularities in the 14th JPSC examination, JSSC-CGL and other recruitment tests, along with institutional reforms.

According to Scroll, student leader Devendra Nath Mahto, who has emerged as the face of the movement, began an indefinite hunger strike on Sunday, insisting that the 14th JPSC preliminary examination held on April 19 be cancelled.

Protesters have also called for investigations by central agencies, including the CBI and the Enforcement Directorate, into the alleged recruitment scam.

On Sunday, demonstrators marched to Albert Ekka Chowk in Ranchi, chanting slogans demanding accountability from the Hemant Soren-led state government and calling for an independent inquiry.

The protest has drawn comparisons with recent nationwide demonstrations over alleged irregularities in competitive examinations across India.

India Today reported that the Cockroach Janta Party, which had earlier backed nationwide protests over alleged examination irregularities, has now extended its support to the Jharkhand movement. Party founder Abhijeet Dipke said on social media that his party stands with the protesting students and supports their demands.

Meanwhile, Chief Minister Hemant Soren said that strict action will be taken against anyone found guilty, Scroll reported.

The state’s Criminal Investigation Department is already probing the allegations. The report added that former JPSC chairman Lalbiaktluanga L. Khiangte resigned last month to facilitate an impartial investigation, while 11 people have been arrested in connection with the case.

The JPSC has also postponed the Combined Civil Services Mains Examination, citing unavoidable circumstances.

Despite heavy monsoon rains, protesters have vowed to continue their agitation until their demands are addressed, with many insisting they will remain on the streets until accountability is ensured, reported India Today.

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India's Jharkhand student protests intensify, calls grow for probe into exam irregularities

India's Jharkhand student protests intensify, calls grow for probe into exam irregularities