Ranchi: The ongoing protest over the alleged irregularities in the 14th Jharkhand Public Service Commission (JPSC) Combined Civil Services Preliminary Examination has intensified, with students continuing their agitation for the 11th consecutive day in Ranchi. As aspirants demand the cancellation of the preliminary examination and a CBI investigation, Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren has assured that his government is treating the issue with utmost seriousness and that the ongoing CID investigation will soon reveal the truth.
The protests are being held at Jairam Singh Stadium in Ranchi, where students have been staging demonstrations against the alleged irregularities in the recruitment process.
CM Hemant Soren Says Government Is Sensitive to Students’ Concerns
Responding to the growing protests, Chief Minister Hemant Soren said his government has been actively addressing the issue since the allegations first surfaced.
He stated that the government is fully aware of the concerns raised by students and is committed to ensuring justice.
“The government has eyes and ears, and it is sensitive to this issue. We are dealing with the matter seriously and will ensure it reaches its logical conclusion,” Soren said.
The Chief Minister added that the CID investigation team has been working continuously and urged students and the public to wait for the final report.
According to him, once the investigation is completed, the findings will be shared publicly and every genuine grievance of the students will be addressed.
Why Are Students Protesting the JPSC Preliminary Examination?
The controversy began after the 14th Combined Civil Services Preliminary Examination was conducted on April 19.
Following the examination:
- The model answer key was released on April 21.
- Candidates were invited to submit objections.
- The preliminary examination results were declared on July 2.
Soon after the results were announced, several candidates alleged serious irregularities in the evaluation process.
Screenshots claiming to be OMR sheets of successful candidates began circulating on social media, raising questions about the transparency of the examination.
One of the most discussed allegations claimed that a candidate had attempted only 48 out of 100 questions but still qualified for the next stage of the recruitment process.
These claims triggered widespread protests among aspirants, who demanded an independent investigation.
JPSC Main Examination Postponed Following the Controversy
As allegations gained momentum, the JPSC Main Examination, originally scheduled between July 25 and July 27, was postponed.
In response to the growing public pressure, the Jharkhand government ordered a CID investigation into the alleged irregularities.
The investigation is currently underway, and the state government has stated that further decisions will be taken based on the probe report.
Students Demand Cancellation of Preliminary Exam and CBI Investigation
Despite the ongoing CID inquiry, protesting students continue to demand stronger action.
Their key demands include:
- Cancellation of the 14th JPSC Preliminary Examination.
- A CBI investigation into the alleged irregularities.
- Transparency in the recruitment process.
- Accountability of officials responsible for any wrongdoing.
The protesters argue that only an independent central agency can ensure a fair investigation and restore confidence in the recruitment system.
Student Leader Devendranath Mahato Continues Indefinite Hunger Strike
The protest movement is being led by student leader Devendranath Mahato, who has been on an indefinite hunger strike in Ranchi.
Mahato has demanded a complete overhaul of both:
- Jharkhand Public Service Commission (JPSC), and
- Jharkhand Staff Selection Commission (JSSC).
He has declared that he will continue his fast until the alleged irregularities are thoroughly investigated and necessary reforms are introduced.
Mahato has also challenged Chief Minister Hemant Soren to either personally meet the protesting students or resign from office, stating that the agitation will continue until their demands are fulfilled.
Kalpana Soren Assures Students of a Resolution
JMM leader Kalpana Soren, wife of Chief Minister Hemant Soren, also addressed the ongoing agitation.
She assured protesting students that the Jharkhand government is actively working to resolve the issue and is committed to finding an appropriate solution.
Her statement comes amid increasing pressure on the state government to restore the confidence of civil service aspirants.
Government Awaits CID Probe Report
The state government has reiterated that the CID investigation is progressing rapidly and that the final report will determine the next course of action.
Chief Minister Hemant Soren emphasized that the investigation team is working round the clock and assured students that justice would be delivered based on the findings.
He urged aspirants to remain patient while the inquiry is completed.
