Student Agitation Escalates in Ranchi: Devendra Nath Mahto Launches Indefinite Hunger Strike Over JPSC and JSSC Recruitment Row

A student protest over alleged irregularities in recruitment examinations conducted by the Jharkhand Public Service Commission (JPSC) and the Jharkhand Staff Selection Commission (JSSC) has intensified in Ranchi, the capital of Jharkhand. Student leader Devendra Nath Mahto, who began a day-and-night sit-in demonstration on July 25, launched an indefinite hunger strike at Jaipal Singh Munda Stadium on August 2 to press the state government to address the grievances of thousands of job aspirants.

Hundreds of students have gathered at the stadium to demand greater transparency and structural reforms in state competitive examinations. The core demands of the protesting aspirants include the immediate cancellation of the 14th JPSC Combined Civil Services Preliminary Examination, a comprehensive probe by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) or an independent panel into alleged paper leaks, an inquiry into recruitment exams conducted by private agencies, and the public release of OMR answer sheets.

The ongoing demonstration has drawn national attention, with several student organizations and prominent public figures voicing support for the movement. Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk reached out to Mahto to urge him to maintain his health while continuing the peaceful democratic protest. Meanwhile, five additional student protesters joined the indefinite hunger strike, expanding the fast into a collective movement ahead of the state assembly session.

The state administration has taken initial steps to address the controversy. The CID has arrested 14 individuals in connection with examination irregularities, and the JPSC postponed its scheduled Mains examination. Chief Minister Hemant Soren stated that the state government is examining the matter seriously and will take appropriate action within the constitutional framework once formal investigative reports are reviewed. However, protesting aspirants maintain that their sit-in will continue until concrete decisions are made regarding their primary demands.