The All Jharkhand Students Union (AJSU) youth wing led a protest on Wednesday demanding a CBI investigation into alleged irregularities in the 14th Jharkhand Public Service Commission (JPSC) exam. Protesters gathered at Jaipal Singh Munda Stadium before marching towards Lok Bhavan. They called for the cancellation of the 14th JPSC exam and improvements in JPSC and Jharkhand Staff Selection Commission (JSSC) operations.
Protestors Demand CBI Probe
AJSU student leaders stated that student futures are at risk. Union president Om Verma alleged that JPSC seats were sold for between Rs 25 Lakh and Rs 1 crore. He specifically requested a CBI inquiry into the 14th JPSC examination results.
The protest centered on claims of widespread corruption in the 14th JPSC Combined Civil Services Preliminary exam held on April 19. A key grievance was the commission's failure to release category-wise cut-off marks before declaring results. This lack of transparency raised concerns about fairness for many candidates.
CID Investigation Faces Scrutiny
Rituraj Shahdev of the AJSU youth wing stated the state government should take responsibility. He drew parallels to the central government's response to the NEET paper leak. While the matter is currently under CID investigation, protesters expressed distrust in its effectiveness.
Shahdev argued that a few arrests are insufficient. He insisted the entire issue requires a comprehensive CBI investigation. The demand for a CBI probe has garnered political backing.
Political Support for Reforms
Senior BJP leader and Leader of Opposition Babulal Marandi also called for a CBI inquiry. He demanded the removal of all involved JPSC members and prosecution of those found guilty. Marandi advocated for stricter legislation, similar to anti-paper leak laws.
BJP MP Aditya Sahu plans to observe a silent fast at Parliament House to highlight the issue. The protests reflect growing student anger and concerns about exam integrity across the country.
Wider Concerns on Exam Fairness
Paper leak allegations and exam-related protests are causing widespread concern among students nationwide. Years of preparation for competitive exams can be undermined by doubts about fairness. This erosion of trust can have significant consequences for future generations.
Exam bodies must respond with clarity and speed when allegations arise. Fair inquiries and robust reforms are essential to rebuild confidence in the examination system. The increasing frequency of such incidents is detrimental to both students and the integrity of the system.
