Jharkhand Students Stage Indefinite Sit-In in Ranchi Over JPSC-JSSC Exam Irregularities

India: Hundreds of job aspirants have turned Jaipal Singh Munda Stadium and nearby areas into a makeshift protest camp, continuing an indefinite satyagraha against alleged paper leaks, corruption and repeated irregularities in recruitment exams conducted by the Jharkhand Public Service Commission (JPSC) and Jharkhand Staff Selection Commission (JSSC).

The agitation, which began as a small gathering at Bapu Vatika around July 25 inspired by nationwide NEET protests, has grown into a wider student movement. On July 29, organisers called a “Maha Andolan” and Constitution March that drew nearly 5,000 participants from across the state. Protesters carried copies of the Constitution and the Tricolour as they marched peacefully through Ranchi, demanding transparency, equal opportunity and accountability in government recruitment.

Aspirants have set up tents, bedding and basic facilities at the stadium, signalling they are prepared for a prolonged stay. Many have travelled from districts including Hazaribagh, Ramgarh and Bokaro. “We will return only after ensuring that JPSC and JSSC are free from corruption,” one protester said. Student groups under banners such as JSSC-JPSC Bhrashtachar Mukht Abhiyan are leading the movement, which they describe as apolitical.

At the centre of the anger are allegations of paper leaks in recent JPSC civil services exams, delayed or cancelled recruitments, irregular evaluation and favouritism. The JPSC prelims results controversy and the use of a blacklisted firm for investigation have added to the frustration. Eleven people have been arrested in the exam-leak case, and JPSC Chairman Lalbiaktluanga Khiangte resigned. Chief Minister Hemant Soren has said strict action will be taken against the guilty. Protesters, however, insist resignations alone are not enough and are demanding a CBI probe, cancellation of tainted exams where necessary, structural reforms and timely, transparent recruitment processes.

Support has come from civil society, coaching institutes and political outfits including the student wing of the All Jharkhand Students Union (AJSU), which organised a march to Raj Bhavan. Candle marches and symbolic demonstrations have continued in recent days. Protesters have warned of further intensification, including a possible hunger strike and a march to the Vidhan Sabha during the monsoon session on August 6.

Lakhs of young people appear for Jharkhand’s government recruitment tests each year. Many say repeated controversies have left them anxious about their futures and careers. Police remain on alert as the peaceful but determined agitation enters its second week.