Jharkhand Exam Protest: Hunger Strike Enters 13th Day, 6 on Fast as Opposition Mounts Pressure

The agitation over alleged irregularities in Jharkhand's recruitment examinations gathered fresh momentum on Thursday as the protest entered its 13th consecutive day, with six demonstrators now on an indefinite hunger strike and the issue dominating the opening day of the state Assembly's Monsoon Session.

The student-led movement, launched on July 25 under the banner of the JPSC-JSSC Reforms Manch, has emerged as one of Jharkhand's largest youth protests in recent years. Protesters are demanding the cancellation of the 14th Jharkhand Public Service Commission (JPSC) Civil Services Examination, an independent investigation by the CBI or a panel of retired High Court judges from outside the state, and comprehensive reforms in both the JPSC and the Jharkhand Staff Selection Commission (JSSC).

The issue also triggered a political confrontation inside and outside the Assembly. MLAs from the opposition NDA staged demonstrations, accusing the Hemant Soren government of failing to ensure transparent recruitment and demanding a CBI inquiry into the alleged examination irregularities. BJP leaders claimed students had lost faith in the state government's committee and CID investigation.

The Congress, despite being a key ally in the ruling coalition, publicly expressed solidarity with the protesting students. Party leaders met Chief Minister Hemant Soren and welcomed the formation of a ministerial committee to hold discussions with student representatives while maintaining that justice for aspirants remains a priority.

Chief Minister Soren reiterated that examination paper leaks have become a national challenge and assured students that his government was committed to finding a lasting solution. He said investigations were progressing and those responsible for the alleged recruitment scam were being arrested, while inviting student representatives for dialogue.

Meanwhile, the hunger strike intensified as five additional protesters, including two women, joined JLKM leader Devendra Nath Mahto, who has been fasting for several days. Concerns over Mahto's health grew after his blood sugar and blood pressure dropped significantly. Social activist Sonam Wangchuk, who recently concluded a prolonged hunger strike over the NEET examination controversy, urged Mahto over the phone to drink water to protect his health. Following the appeal, Mahto agreed to consume water while continuing his indefinite protest.

With student organisations planning demonstrations near the Assembly over the coming days, authorities have imposed prohibitory orders within a 750-metre radius of the Assembly complex from August 6 to August 12. The CID investigation has also intensified, with 19 arrests made so far, including five on Wednesday, as officials continue questioning those linked to the alleged recruitment scam.