Kathmandu— Students protesting alleged irregularities in Jharkhand Public Service Commission (JPSC) and Jharkhand Staff Selection Commission (JSSC) examinations clashed with police for the third time on Monday evening outside the state Assembly in Ranchi, resulting in a lathi charge, tear gas deployment, and water cannons being used against demonstrators. The JPSC-JSSC Reform Manch organized the 'Vidhan Sabha Gherao' march to demand a CBI investigation into alleged irregularities and comprehensive reforms in the recruitment process, vowing to continue their agitation despite the forceful police response. Student leader Devendra Nath Mahato has been on hunger strike for nine days, representing what he says are the concerns of millions of young people preparing for competitive examinations.

Escalating Protests and Police Response

The latest clash unfolded after authorities attempted to prevent protesters from approaching the Assembly. Demonstrators expressed outrage over the police action, with one protester stating, “We will face the batons; we will fight for our rights.” Several protesters alleged that women participating in the demonstration were also subjected to police force, claiming a lack of female officers present during the crackdown. Ranchi City Superintendent of Police Paras Rana stated that while most students remained peaceful, a small section became aggressive and damaged barricades.

Key Demands and Concerns

Protesters are demanding the cancellation of the JSSC-CGL examination, a CBI investigation into alleged irregularities, and comprehensive reforms in the recruitment process. Student leader Devendra Nath Mahato emphasized that the movement represents the concerns of millions of young people relying on competitive exams for their future. He also questioned the credibility of an investigation given reports of candidates taking examinations from locations like Nepal. Mahato noted his deteriorating health after nine days on hunger strike, but vowed to continue fighting.

Political Reactions and Support

The protests have drawn criticism of the Jharkhand government from opposition leaders. Union Minister Sanjay Seth slammed the use of force and questioned the deployment of barricades fitted with blades, while BJP MP Sanjay Jaiswal criticized the lack of a CBI inquiry despite repeated demands. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi condemned the violence against peacefully protesting students, urging dialogue to resolve their grievances. Several other political figures have voiced support for the protesters and called for accountability.

Allegations and Counterclaims

Protesters allege that vehicles attempting to join the march were stopped by security personnel. Some also claim police shoved protesters during a stampede, resulting in injuries. Jharkhand Minister Deepika Pandey Singh stated the government has been engaging with protesters and maintaining law and order, while acknowledging legal considerations surrounding the cancellation of the JSSC-CGL exam. She added that the state is open to investigations into alleged financial irregularities and plans to introduce reforms involving experts from premier institutions.

The protests are ongoing, with ABVP planning another Assembly march on Tuesday. Student groups have vowed to continue their agitation until their demands for a CBI probe and recruitment process reform are met.

(With inputs from ANI)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.