Student Protest: Students Gear Up for Assembly March Over JPSC-JSSC Exam Irregularities

The student protest in Ranchi entered its 17th day, with thousands of students preparing to march from the old Jharkhand Assembly building towards the new Assembly over alleged irregularities in JPSC, JSSC CGL and other competitive examinations. The march follows three rounds of talks between the government and student representatives that failed to produce a satisfactory resolution. Students continue to demand fair examinations, cancellation of disputed exams and a CBI investigation. Heavy security arrangements have been made, with police personnel deployed across the route and barbed-wire barricades installed around key points. Protesters from districts including Palamu and Hazaribagh have arrived in Ranchi, while student leaders alleged that some participants were detained before reaching the city and that travel restrictions were imposed. Thousands are expected to participate in the march. Meanwhile, several protesters remain at the main agitation site on hunger strike. Artists and social media personalities have also joined the movement to encourage the students. Protesters say they will continue their agitation until their major demands, particularly regarding examination transparency and accountability, are addressed.