Amid widespread student demonstrations in Jharkhand over alleged irregularities in competitive recruitment examinations, Aam Aadmi Party national convenor Arvind Kejriwal has voiced his support for the protesting aspirants. In a statement shared on social media platform X, Kejriwal urged the Jharkhand government to resolve the issues raised by the youth without delay. He emphasized that any form of violence against students demanding fair treatment is completely unacceptable.
Escalation Over JPSC and JSSC Exam Irregularities
Job aspirants in Jharkhand have been holding demonstrations against alleged paper leaks and procedural flaws in examinations conducted by the Jharkhand Public Service Commission (JPSC) and the Jharkhand Staff Selection Commission (JSSC). The protests intensified as students organized a march toward the state Assembly to press for the cancellation of compromised exams and standard recruitment reforms. Human rights organization CJP has also backed the aspirants, advocating for transparent inquiry into the alleged irregularities.
Hunger Strike and Sonam Wangchuk's Intervention
Student leader Devendra Nath Mahato began an indefinite hunger strike to push for systemic recruitment reforms. Concerned over his health, prominent climate activist Sonam Wangchuk issued an appeal asking him to consume fluids. Responding to Wangchuk's request, Mahato agreed to accept water but affirmed that his hunger strike and protest would persist until all key student demands are formally met.
Government Claims Versus Students' Rejection
Addressing the escalating impasse, Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren called for dialogue and asked protesting candidates to submit concrete recommendations for JPSC examination reforms. While state officials claimed that nearly 98 percent of the students' demands had been accepted alongside proposed structural changes, student representatives firmly rejected the assertion. Mahato termed the official statements misleading, noting that only three examinations had been cancelled so far and core systemic issues remained unaddressed.
Arvind Kejriwal and Broader Political Reactions
Kejriwal's intervention follows support from other political leaders, including former Jamshedpur MP Ajoy Kumar, who previously urged the administration to address the grievances of JPSC and JSSC aspirants swiftly. Meanwhile, the BJP launched a political critique against opposition figures including Rahul Gandhi, alleging double standards regarding student rights in the state. As the deadlock continues, pressure mounts on the administration to establish a transparent framework for future government hiring.
