In brief
Thousands of students, job seekers and volunteers have gathered in Ranchi to protest alleged irregularities in Jharkhand’s government exams, demanding a overhaul of the selection system. Police deployed tear gas shells, water cannons and batons to disperse the crowd, with several injuries reported and claims of minimal force from officials. In response, the state government cancelled the questioned exam, accepted some demands, and announced investigations, while activists and political parties urge a federal probe. The movement reflects a wider national push for transparency in public service recruitment.
Overview
In rising May 2026, thousands of students, job aspirants and volunteer supporters converged on Ranchi, the capital of Jharkhand, demanding reforms to the state’s civil‑service exam system after allegations of leaked answer sheets and irregularities.
Protest Details
Police used tear gas shells, water cannons and batons to prevent demonstrators from breaching barricades and reaching the state assembly building. Senior officer Paras Rana, superintendent of police, said about 90% of protesters were peaceful, while a smaller group escalated the situation with stone‑throwing, leading to injuries on both sides. The exact number of wounded remains unclear, though media reports cite several police staff and protester injuries.
Government Response
Following weeks of agitation, the Jharkhand government accepted several demands: cancellations of the disputed exam, resignations of key JPSC members and a promise to investigate irregularities. The state Crown Prosecutor’s office has also begun a probe into the private firm that handled part of the exam process, and a dozen people have already been arrested.
Political Backing and Wider Context
Interest in the protest has broadened beyond student circles. The opposition Bharatiya Janata Party and the ruling Congress party have both expressed support, speaking to the national significance of the call for fairness in public recruitment. Chief Minister Hemant Soren warned against politicising the agitation and pledged action, while leaders in the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha and national parties have highlighted the perceived manipulation of civil‑service results.
Key Demands and Future Steps
Activists insist that a federal investigation by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) is essential to verify allegations of malpractice. Though the state government has begun steps to rectify the situation, protesters continue to hold the crowd at the stadium in Ranchi, with several on hunger strike, stating the protest will continue until all demands are met.
