Surendra Soren
Ranchi
Anger among aspirants over alleged irregularities, malpractice and corruption in competitive examinations conducted by the Jharkhand Public Service Commission (JPSC) and Jharkhand Staff Selection Commission (JSSC) is intensifying, with student organisations preparing for a fresh round of protests in the state capital.
The administration’s refusal to grant permission for a proposed gathering at Jaipal Singh Stadium on Thursday evening prompted student leaders to hold a press conference, where they sharply criticised the state government. They alleged that the government was ignoring the grievances of candidates and attempting to suppress or dilute the matter instead of addressing the alleged irregularities.
Student groups are preparing to take out a candlelight march on Friday. They have also warned that they may launch an indefinite protest and hunger strike from August 2-3 if the government fails to take concrete steps on their demands.
The agitation has been gaining momentum with support from student organisations and various political parties, raising concerns among the authorities over a possible escalation of the protests.
In view of the sensitivity of the issue and concerns over law and order, the Special Branch of Jharkhand Police has gone on high alert. The intelligence wing has issued an official communication to the Deputy Commissioners and Superintendents of Police of all districts, besides the SSPs of Ranchi, Jamshedpur and Dhanbad, directing them to maintain close surveillance, exercise heightened vigilance and deploy adequate security personnel wherever required.
According to an intelligence assessment, the movement is receiving support from several private educational institutions and coaching centres across the state. A large number of aspirants from different parts of Jharkhand are reportedly reaching Ranchi by buses, trains and private vehicles to participate in the protests.
Following the alert issued by the Special Branch, Ranchi Police and the district administration have strengthened security arrangements around key locations, including Bapu Vatika, the Morabadi area, Lok Bhavan and the Jharkhand Assembly premises.
Authorities are closely monitoring the situation as student organisations prepare for further demonstrations in the coming days. The proposed candlelight march and the threat of an indefinite hunger strike are likely to determine the next course of the agitation.
