The agitation over alleged irregularities in Jharkhand’s recruitment examinations has entered a new phase, with protesters preparing to intensify their campaign even after the State government announced the cancellation of several recruitment tests.
The protest reached its 25th day on August 18, with three demonstrators — Rahul Kranti, Sabita Kumari and Rupesh Pal — continuing their hunger strike. Their protest remains focused on demands for a transparent recruitment system and action against those allegedly responsible for irregularities in government examinations.
Devendra Mahto Ends 16-Day Hunger Strike
Jharkhand Loktantrik Kranti Morcha (JLKM) leader Devendra Mahto ended his 16-day hunger strike around midnight on August 17, following the State government’s announcement regarding the cancellation of recruitment examinations.
Two other protesters, Prem Nayak and Umme Habiba, also called off their hunger strike after the government’s decision.
Despite the withdrawal of these hunger strikes, the broader agitation has not ended. Protesters have indicated that they intend to launch a second phase of the movement to press for further action.
Demand for Probe Into Exam Irregularities
The dispute centres on allegations of irregularities in recruitment examinations conducted through an outsourced agency since 2014. Among the examinations affected is the Jharkhand Staff Selection Commission-Combined Graduate Level (JSSC-CGL) examination.
Chief Minister Hemant Soren announced the cancellation of the recruitment tests conducted through the agency, a move that addressed one of the protesters’ major demands.
However, the protesters are seeking broader measures, including a detailed investigation into the alleged irregularities and accountability for those responsible.
Phase Two of Protest Planned
With the initial hunger strike largely called off, Devendra Mahto has said the movement will enter a second phase aimed at demanding corruption-free government recruitment examinations.
The protesters want the recruitment process to be more transparent and credible, particularly for young people preparing for government jobs. They are also pressing for an investigation into the allegations and appropriate action against those found responsible.
The latest developments suggest that the cancellation of the examinations has eased one part of the dispute, but the larger confrontation over recruitment transparency and accountability in Jharkhand is likely to continue.
