Ranchi: Amid protests by students over alleged irregularities in competitive examinations in Jharkhand, a four-member ministerial committee of the state government held a press conference on Sunday and addressed key demands raised by protesting students.
Minister Sudivya Sonu said that the government had accepted most of the students’ demands but maintained that cancelling the JSSC CGL examination was not legally possible at this stage. The government appealed to students to suspend their agitation and choose dialogue and discussions to resolve the issue.
JPSC Irregularities: CID to Conduct Detailed Investigation
Following indications of irregularities in the 14th JPSC examination, the investigation has been expedited on the directions of Chief Minister Hemant Soren.
The government said the CID will conduct a comprehensive investigation into the examination process and the role of TDPL, the agency involved in conducting the examination.
The investigation will focus on:
- The role of the examination-conducting agency.
- The overall examination process.
- Alleged irregularities associated with the examination.
- Any financial transactions linked to the matter.
The government has also said that other examinations conducted by JPSC could be brought under the investigation if evidence of irregularities is found.
Read also: Jharkhand Govt Holds Second Round of Talks With Students Over JPSC, JSSC Exam Irregularities
Government to Seek ED Assistance in Financial Transaction Probe
The state government said it would request the Enforcement Directorate (ED) to assist in examining financial transactions related to the alleged irregularities.
The objective is to ensure an impartial investigation into any financial dealings that may have taken place in connection with the examination process.
The government has made it clear that strict action will be taken against anyone found responsible after the investigation establishes the facts.
Why Is JSSC CGL Exam Not Being Cancelled?
A major point of disagreement between the government and protesting students is the demand to cancel the JSSC CGL examination.
Minister Sudivya Sonu said the result of the examination was published under the direct supervision of the High Court and Supreme Court. He argued that because of the judicial process and court orders, the government cannot directly cancel the examination.
He said students could approach the High Court if they wanted an investigation into the examination. According to the minister, the government would be ready to conduct an investigation if the court issues any direction.
While the government and students have reached an understanding on most issues, discussions regarding the cancellation of the JSSC CGL examination remain unresolved.
Future Competitive Exams to Be Conducted Through CBT
The Jharkhand government has also announced major changes to the examination system to make future competitive examinations more transparent and prevent paper leaks.
Under the proposed changes:
- A new examination rule framework will be implemented in the state.
- Preliminary examinations for future competitive exams will be conducted through Computer-Based Tests (CBT).
- The new system is aimed at improving transparency and reducing the possibility of examination-related irregularities.
CID Releases Email and Helpline for Students
CID ADG Manoj Kaushik, who was present at the press conference, appealed to students to maintain peace and withdraw the proposed agitation.
The CID has also provided an email ID and mobile number through which students can share information related to alleged irregularities.
Students who have evidence, documents or other relevant information have been encouraged to directly share them with the CID so that the material can be examined as part of the investigation.
Government Appeals to Students to End Agitation
Despite the government’s assurances and announcements, some students continue to demand action on the JSSC CGL issue.
The government has appealed to the protesting students to avoid an aggressive form of agitation and suspend their movement.
The four-member ministerial committee maintained that the government is willing to address the concerns through dialogue and that a lasting solution can be found through discussion, investigation and due legal process.
