Hundreds of students in Ranchi have begun an indefinite hunger strike demanding the cancellation of the 14th JPSC‑CGSL exam and a transparent recruitment process. Support from CJP and the Cockroach Public Party has intensified the protest, while the chief minister has ordered a CID probe.

Key Takeaways

  • Indefinite hunger strike announced
  • CJP and Cockroach Public Party pledge support
  • Demand for cancellation of 14th JPSC exam

Ranchi, Jharkhand – Hundreds of students from across the state have gathered at Jaypal Singh Stadium, refusing food and water until their demands are met. Student leader Devendra Nath Mahato declared an "ann‑jal tyag" (renunciation of food and water) to keep morale high while protesting alleged irregularities in the 14th JPSC‑CGSL and other recruitment exams.

Following the hunger strike announcement, CJP founder Abhijit Deepak joined the cause via video call, promising solidarity and urging the government to act. The Cockroach Public Party also offered its backing, adding further momentum to the movement.

The core demands are clear: cancel the 14th JPSC preliminary exam, conduct an independent probe into the exam‑conducting agency, and overhaul the entire recruitment system. Chief Minister Hemant Soren has instructed the CID to investigate, but students deem this insufficient and are calling for a full CBI‑ED inquiry.

Historical Background: Student activism has shaped Indian policy for decades—from the 1990s anti‑exam‑corruption movements to the nationwide 2020 recruitment reforms. Jharkhand itself saw several recruitment protests between 2010‑2015, yet the present hunger strike marks a new level of resolve and external support.

Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that a loss of confidence in the state's recruitment process could drive talented youth toward other states or the private sector, eroding Jharkhand's human capital in the long run.

"A hunger strike is not merely symbolic; it reflects deep‑seated frustration among aspirants," says political scientist Dr. Rajat Singh.
Did You Know?: In a similar 2019 protest, over 300 students staged a hunger strike, but this time social media amplification has turned a regional issue into a national conversation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Has the government taken steps to end the hunger strike?
A: No concrete order has been issued yet; only a CID inquiry has been launched.

Q2: How long will the students continue the strike?
A: They intend to maintain the strike until all their demands are fully addressed.