Student protesters in Ranchi have demonstrated for 17 days [1] demanding a federal investigation into alleged recruitment exam paper leaks.

The unrest threatens the stability of the state's civil service selection process and has led to violent clashes between youth and law enforcement.

Demonstrators are calling for a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the Jharkhand Public Service Commission (JPSC) and Jharkhand Staff Selection Commission (JSSC) exams. They are also seeking the cancellation of the JSSC Combined Graduate Level (CGL) examination [1, 4].

"We demand a CBI probe into the alleged paper leak and the cancellation of the JSSC CGL exam," said protest leader Devendra Nath Mahto [3]. Mahto has been on a hunger strike for nine days [1].

The protests have centered around the Old and New State Assembly buildings in Ranchi [2]. Police officials said they have deployed additional forces and are using tear-gas to disperse unlawful assemblies [5]. Other reports indicate the use of water cannons and lathi charges against the marching students [6].

Chief Minister Hemant Soren said the government is looking into the matter and will take appropriate action [2].

The controversy has already led to significant administrative turnover. Three members of the JPSC have resigned [3]. Additionally, authorities have arrested former JPSC chairman L. Khiangte [6].

Students allege that the leaks compromised the fairness of the selection process, threatening the career prospects of thousands of candidates [5]. The demonstrators continue to march toward the state assembly to pressure the administration for a formal federal inquiry.

“"We demand a CBI probe into the alleged paper leak and the cancellation of the JSSC CGL exam."”

The demand for a CBI probe reflects a deep lack of trust in state-level investigative bodies to handle corruption within their own recruitment commissions. By targeting the JSSC CGL exam, students are highlighting systemic vulnerabilities in the state's examination security, where a single leak can invalidate years of preparation for thousands of candidates.