Kathmandu— Thousands of student protesters gathered near the Vidhan Sabha in Ranchi, Jharkhand on Monday to demonstrate against alleged irregularities in recent examinations and the recruitment process. Jharkhand Loktantrik Krantikari Morcha (JLKM) leader Devendra Nath Mahato joined the ‘Vidhan Sabha Gherao’ march, vowing that the state government “will have to listen” to their demands after a nine-day hunger strike. Protesters are demanding the cancellation of the JSSC-CGL examination and a CBI investigation into the alleged irregularities, forming human chains and attempting to breach heavy security barricades surrounding the assembly.

Protest Leader Joins Demonstration

Devendra Nath Mahato carried a portrait of former Jharkhand Chief Minister Shibu Soren as he joined the march. Despite being on hunger strike for nine days, Mahato stated that the barriers would not deter them from making their voices heard, arriving at the protest in an ambulance. He emphasized his status as an ordinary citizen, stating, “I am no God or messiah; I am a common man.” Mahato also criticized the government’s response to the protests, questioning why they were pushing for conflict instead of addressing student concerns.

Demands for Cancellation and Investigation

Protesters are primarily demanding the cancellation of the JSSC-CGL examination and a CBI investigation into the alleged irregularities. One protester stated, “We are not going to stop today. Our first demand is to cancel the JSSC-CGL exam, secondly, a CBI probe.” Another protester expressed frustration with the state’s policies, noting that despite Jharkhand being rich in minerals, students were being left behind. They also alleged security personnel were preventing people from joining the march.

Government Response and Concerns

Mahato appealed to Chief Minister Hemant Soren not to authorize police action against protesters, particularly on his birthday, warning of potential unrest reminiscent of events at Jantar Mantar. He warned that failure to address the demands would be remembered as an attack on democracy and pledged to continue his hunger strike. Jharkhand Minister Irfan Ansari stated that the government supports the youth and is in talks to find a solution, criticizing the opposition BJP for allegedly attempting to divert attention from the issue.

Protesters remained near the Vidhan Sabha awaiting a resolution, while authorities continued to maintain heavy security around the area.

(With inputs from ANI)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.