RANCHI — Opposition political forces in Jharkhand have called for a complete statewide shutdown following violent clashes between security forces and civil service aspirants demonstrating against widespread examination paper leaks and recruitment irregularities.
The call for the bandh was announced by state BJP President Aditya Sahu and Leader of Opposition Babulal Marandi, who condemned the police’s deployment of tear gas, water cannons, and batons against students marching toward the Jharkhand Legislative Assembly. While Chief Minister Hemant Soren defended law enforcement’s handling of the march and reiterated calls for dialogue, protesting groups and opposition leaders remain firm on their primary condition: an immediate Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the JPSC and JSSC-CGL recruitment tests. Ranchi district authorities have placed security forces on high alert and advised academic institutions to suspend operations to maintain public order.
Key Highlights
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Statewide Agitation: Opposition parties mobilize a state shutdown to protest alleged police brutality and systemic civil service exam malpractices.
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Core Demand Stalemate: Protesters refuse government concessions, insisting on a central CBI inquiry and full cancellation of compromised examinations.
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Capital Operational Impact: Ranchi district administration issues precautionary safety advisories, prompting widespread school closures and heightened security deployment across major transit corridors.
