Police in Ranchi used tear gas, water cannons, and lathi-charges Monday morning to disperse thousands of student protesters [1].
The clash highlights growing tension over government recruitment processes in Jharkhand, where aspirants allege systemic irregularities in high-stakes civil service examinations.
Protesters, primarily aspirants for the Jharkhand Public Service Commission (JPSC) and Jharkhand Staff Selection Commission (JSSC), marched toward the Vidhan Sabha [3]. The demonstrations took place near both the old assembly complex in Dhurwa and the new assembly building [1, 2].
Authorities deployed multiple rounds of tear gas and used water cannons to push back the crowds [1]. Police also conducted a lathi-charge to clear the area [2].
The unrest follows a period of escalating protests led by figures such as Devendra Nath Mahto. Mahto recently conducted a hunger strike lasting nine days [3]. During that period, Mahto lost 10.5 kg in weight [3].
Rahul Gandhi said, "Attacking a peaceful protest with violence is wrong."
The students are demanding transparency and a resolution to alleged irregularities in the recruitment exams [3]. The march was intended as a "gherao" of the assembly to force government leaders to address their grievances [2].
“Police used tear gas, water cannons, and lathi-charges to disperse thousands of student protesters.”
The escalation of force against JPSC and JSSC aspirants reflects a deepening crisis of trust between the youth and the state's recruitment bodies. By deploying riot control measures against students, the government risks further radicalizing a demographic already frustrated by unemployment and perceived corruption in the civil service pipeline.
