Kathmandu— Jharkhand Governor Santosh Kumar Gangwar accepted the resignations of three members of the Jharkhand Public Service Commission (JPSC) – Ajita Bhattacharya, Anima Hansda, and Jamal Ahmed – on Sunday, following a recommendation from the state government. The decision comes as protests continue by JPSC and Jharkhand Staff Selection Commission (JSSC) aspirants who allege irregularities in recent public service examinations. Talks between the government and protestors concluded on Sunday, with assurances of transparency and accountability.

Governor Appeals for Dialogue

Governor Gangwar appealed to JPSC-JSSC aspirants to resolve their concerns through dialogue, emphasizing the Chief Minister Hemant Soren’s concern for the students' issues. He stated that both he and the Chief Minister were open to meeting with protestors at any time to discuss a resolution. "We do not want to toy with the future of our children," Gangwar said. “Resolve this by talking it out.”

Chief Minister Pledges Justice

Chief Minister Soren assured protesting youth that justice would be delivered transparently and that those found responsible for irregularities in the examinations would face severe punishment. He highlighted that his government’s actions had empowered students to come forward and demand accountability, exposing wrongdoing within the system. "Our youth are staging protests…to claim their rights," Soren said. “It is precisely because of our government's actions that they have found the courage to step forward.”

Protests Over Exam Irregularities

The ongoing protests began after the announcement of results for the 14th JPSC Civil Services Preliminary Examination on July 5, with aspirants alleging irregularities in the recruitment process. Students have been engaged in round-the-clock demonstrations and an indefinite sit-in, demanding transparency and accountability from the commission. The protestors are also seeking a CBI investigation into the alleged irregularities.

The state government has initiated talks with protesting students, promising a transparent resolution to the issues raised and severe consequences for those found responsible for any wrongdoing.

(With inputs from ANI)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.