JPSC Protest: Jharkhand Students Demand Exam Cancellation, CBI Probe and Reforms

The student protest in Ranchi over alleged irregularities in JPSC and JSSC examinations has entered its 12th day, with students continuing their sit-in and hunger strike at Jaipal Singh Stadium. The protesters have placed several demands before the Jharkhand government, including cancellation of the 14th JPSC preliminary examination and a fresh exam process. They are also demanding a CBI investigation instead of the ongoing CID probe, alleging that only an independent inquiry can ensure transparency. Students are seeking an end to contracts given to blacklisted companies, reforms in the recruitment system, a fifth option in OMR sheets, and complete transparency in the preparation of merit lists. They allege widespread irregularities in government recruitment examinations and demand accountability from officials. The state government has initiated a CID investigation, with arrests made and the JPSC chairman resigning, but students remain dissatisfied. Reports suggest the government may send a delegation of ministers to hold talks with protesters. Meanwhile, the issue has become a political flashpoint, with opposition parties targeting the government over its response to the agitation.