Kathmandu— Student protesters are scheduled to march on the Jharkhand State Assembly today, Monday, August 10th, demanding investigations into alleged irregularities within the Jharkhand Public Service Commission (JPSC) and Jharkhand Staff Selection Commission (JSSC) examinations. The protests stem from concerns about the recruitment process following the announcement of JPSC Civil Services Preliminary Examination results on July 5th, with students alleging widespread misconduct. Security has been tightened across Ranchi as demonstrators seek cancellation of specific exams, a CBI inquiry, and broader reforms to the state’s recruitment system.

Security Tightened Ahead of Protest

Jharkhand Police and administration have implemented extensive security measures in anticipation of the march, including the installation of razor fencing near Jagannath Temple along the planned route. Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) has been imposed within a 750-meter radius of the state Assembly to maintain order and prevent disruptions.

Unresolved Demands Fuel Protest

Protesting students assert that while the government has addressed some reform demands, key issues remain unresolved. Student leader Ravindra Paswan explained that their concerns center on the cancellation of exams conducted by the TDPL agency – specifically the JSSC-CGL, PGT, and Excise exams – as well as those involving Abhay Tiwari. “The government has shown no willingness to agree” to these cancellations, he stated. Sanjay Mehta, another student leader, confirmed that despite multiple rounds of talks, not all demands have been met, with support for the march extending from across Jharkhand.

Call for CBI Investigation

Students are specifically demanding a CBI inquiry into alleged irregularities in the JSSC-CGL exam and other examinations. Piyush Kumar clarified that the government is only agreeing to investigate the JSSC-CGL exam linked to Abhay Kumar Tiwari, while protesters seek broader investigations. Paswan appealed for widespread participation, emphasizing a commitment to peaceful protest and promising swift action against any individuals attempting to incite violence.

Government Response and Commission Resignations

The state government has announced a multi-pronged response, including probes by the Crime Investigation Department (CID) and Enforcement Directorate (ED) into the alleged irregularities. However, protesters continue to insist on a CBI investigation. Notably, three members of the Jharkhand Public Service Commission (JPSC) resigned on Sunday amid the ongoing controversy.

The students plan to continue their protest until their demands are fully addressed, vowing a non-violent approach despite the heightened security measures and ongoing investigations.

(With inputs from ANI)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.