The confrontation took place on August 10 (Img: X)
New Delhi: The ongoing agitation by JPSC and JSSC aspirants in Jharkhand has intensified after police registered an FIR against around 600 protesters following clashes during the Assembly gherao in Ranchi. The case includes nearly 100 named individuals and around 500 unidentified protesters.
Police have invoked several sections under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and said investigations are underway using CCTV footage and other evidence to identify those allegedly involved in violence, damage to property and disruption of law and order.
The confrontation took place on August 10 when thousands of job aspirants marched towards the Jharkhand Assembly demanding action over alleged irregularities in recruitment examinations conducted by the Jharkhand Public Service Commission (JPSC) and Jharkhand Staff Selection Commission (JSSC).
As protesters attempted to move beyond barricades, police used tear gas, water cannons and baton charges to control the situation. Police alleged that some protesters resorted to stone-pelting, while demonstrators accused authorities of using excessive force against a largely peaceful movement.
The aspirants have been demanding transparency in recruitment exams, cancellation of allegedly affected examinations and a probe by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).
The protests have continued for several days, with students alleging irregularities and paper leaks in recruitment processes. The movement gained further attention after investigations into alleged examination-related issues.
The agitation has been led by student groups and JLKM leader Devendra Nath Mahto, who has emerged as a prominent face of the movement. Supporters claimed that Mahto joined the Assembly march despite health concerns after a prolonged hunger strike over recruitment issues.
Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren has said that the government is taking the concerns of students seriously and that decisions will be taken based on investigation reports and legal procedures.
Meanwhile, protesters continue to demand accountability and a time-bound solution to their concerns.
