Jharkhand Students Intensify Protest Over JPSC, JSSC Exam Scam Allegations, Demand CBI Probe

The agitation over alleged irregularities in Jharkhand Public Service Commission (JPSC) and Jharkhand Staff Selection Commission (JSSC) recruitment examinations intensified on Sunday, with hundreds of aspirants continuing their indefinite sit-in for the fifth consecutive day in Ranchi. The protesters are demanding a CBI investigation, cancellation of the 14th JPSC Combined Preliminary Examination, and sweeping reforms in the state's recruitment process.

The protest, which began on July 29, has drawn students from across Jharkhand. Demonstrators gathered at a stadium in Ranchi, raising slogans demanding justice, transparency and accountability in government recruitment examinations.

Students alleged that repeated instances of question paper leaks and examination irregularities have shattered their confidence in the recruitment system. They claimed that the latest controversy involves the alleged leak of OMR sheets related to the 14th JPSC examination.

While Chief Minister Hemant Soren has ordered a CID investigation, the protesting aspirants say they no longer have faith in state-level probes. They are demanding a CBI inquiry into all recruitment examinations conducted by the JPSC and JSSC over the past seven years, alleging that previous investigations failed to bring those responsible to justice.

The protesters have also sought an independent investigation by central agencies, including the Enforcement Directorate (ED), into the alleged irregularities. Another key demand is the introduction of a fifth "Not Attempted" option in OMR answer sheets to improve the examination process.

Many aspirants said years of preparation and the hopes of thousands of students are being affected by alleged corruption in recruitment agencies. Several participants, including students from farming families and tribal communities, said they were only seeking a fair and transparent selection process based on merit.

Despite the prolonged protest, students vowed to continue their agitation until the government addresses their demands, fixes accountability and restores confidence in the state's recruitment system.