In brief
In Ranchi, police used tear gas, water cannons and batons against thousands of students and job seekers demanding a reform of Jharkhand’s exam system. Occurring after allegations that leaked answer sheets showed questionable results, the protest has drawn political support, especially from the BJP and Congress. Despite police restraint, a few protesters breached barricades, leading to injuries on both sides. The government has promised a federal investigation while continuing to face demands for a comprehensive review of the exam process.
Police in India have fired tear gas shells on protesters demanding reforms to recruitment exams in the eastern state of Jharkhand.
Thousands of students, job seekers and volunteers have been trying to reach the state's assembly in the capital city of Ranchi to register their protest.
In recent weeks the demonstrators have staged a two‑week sit‑in demanding an overhaul of the state’s examination system after a leaked answer sheet sparked concerns of manipulation.
On Monday many protesters attempted to breach police barricades, facing water cannons, batons and tear gas. Police said about 90% of the crowd remained peaceful but a smaller group threw stones at officers, injuring three policemen.
The protest follows nationwide “cockroach”‐style rallies over alleged exam paper leaks, signalling growing unrest about fairness in civil service recruitment.
Government officials said the protest would continue until all demands—a federal investigation by the CBI and a complete review of the exam process—are met. Despite agreeing to cancel the contested exam, JPSC members resigned and investigations continue.
