Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren on Monday (August 17) announced that the state government would soon cancel the JSSC-CGL examination amid continuing protests by job aspirants over alleged irregularities in recruitment examinations. Soren said the state Cabinet had decided to cancel the JSSC-CGL examination and ordered a comprehensive inquiry into errors and irregularities reported in examinations conducted since 2014.&nbsp;“Today, the Cabinet decided to cancel the JSSC-CGL examinations as well. Furthermore, a comprehensive inquiry will be conducted into all errors, minor or major, that have occurred since 2014. We will also soon convene to discuss the amendments made to the MMDR Act by the Central Government; if necessary, we may even call a special session to deliberate on this specific issue," he said. “Addressing all aspects of the issue, we have decided to cancel everything associated with TDPL, including the examinations conducted, the results published, the candidates selected or who participated, and all other activities carried out by TDPL," he added.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/lakshmanan-meyyappan-how-a-16-year-old-became-the-world-s-youngest-chartered-accountant-1786982535952">Lakshmanan Meyyappan: How a 16-year-old became the world’s youngest chartered accountant</a><h2>CID and SIT probes to cover exams since 2014</h2>Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren said investigations by the CID and Special Investigation Team (SIT) had uncovered several ‘incriminating facts’ related to alleged irregularities in recruitment examinations. He said individuals recruited through the Jharkhand Staff Selection Commission (JSSC) were being arrested in connection with alleged fraud and examination rigging.<h3>SOPs not followed</h3>Soren said the government already had a standard operating procedure (SOP) for conducting examinations, but it had not been implemented properly. “We already have the SOP, but it was not followed. That is why irregularities were reported in examinations conducted in the recent past,” he said. He said the government would take steps to reform the examination system and make the process more transparent.<h2>Amitabh Kaushal to lead reform initiative</h2>Soren said the government had also launched a portal to receive students’ grievances. Complaints submitted through the portal would be shared with the expert team examining the issue. He announced that Amitabh Kaushal would lead the government’s examination reform initiative. The chief minister said the government had held discussions with protesting students and was aware of the concerns they had raised. He reiterated the government’s commitment to addressing their grievances and strengthening the examination and recruitment process.

Jharkhand CM Hemant Soren announces cancellation of JSSC-CGL exam, probe into recruitment irregularities since 2014 and tougher action against exam fraud

Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren on Monday (August 17) announced that the state government would soon cancel the JSSC-CGL examination amid continuing protests by job aspirants over alleged irregularities in recruitment examinations. Soren said the state Cabinet had decided to cancel the JSSC-CGL examination and ordered a comprehensive inquiry into errors and irregularities reported in examinations conducted since 2014. “Today, the Cabinet decided to cancel the JSSC-CGL examinations as well. Furthermore, a comprehensive inquiry will be conducted into all errors, minor or major, that have occurred since 2014. We will also soon convene to discuss the amendments made to the MMDR Act by the Central Government; if necessary, we may even call a special session to deliberate on this specific issue," he said. “Addressing all aspects of the issue, we have decided to cancel everything associated with TDPL, including the examinations conducted, the results published, the candidates selected or who participated, and all other activities carried out by TDPL," he added. Also Read: Lakshmanan Meyyappan: How a 16-year-old became the world’s youngest chartered accountant CID and SIT probes to cover exams since 2014 Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren said investigations by the CID and Special Investigation Team (SIT) had uncovered several ‘incriminating facts’ related to alleged irregularities in recruitment examinations. He said individuals recruited through the Jharkhand Staff Selection Commission (JSSC) were being arrested in connection with alleged fraud and examination rigging. SOPs not followed Soren said the government already had a standard operating procedure (SOP) for conducting examinations, but it had not been implemented properly. “We already have the SOP, but it was not followed. That is why irregularities were reported in examinations conducted in the recent past,” he said. He said the government would take steps to reform the examination system and make the process more transparent. Amitabh Kaushal to lead reform initiative Soren said the government had also launched a portal to receive students’ grievances. Complaints submitted through the portal would be shared with the expert team examining the issue. He announced that Amitabh Kaushal would lead the government’s examination reform initiative. The chief minister said the government had held discussions with protesting students and was aware of the concerns they had raised. He reiterated the government’s commitment to addressing their grievances and strengthening the examination and recruitment process.

Hemant Soren says Jharkhand will cancel the JSSC-CGL exam and probe recruitment irregularities since 2014 amid protests by job aspirants

'Jharkhand government to cancel JSSC-CGL examinations', says CM Hemant Soren amid student protests

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has written to Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren, suggesting that he personally meet students protesting against alleged irregularities in recruitment examinations and listen to their concerns.&nbsp;In a letter dated August 14 and released on Monday (Aug 17), Gandhi said the protest had remained peaceful and described the students' demands as legitimate. He said a meeting between Soren and the protesters would reinforce the state government's commitment to resolving the issue.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jharkhand-protest-devendra-nath-mahto-enters-15-days-of-hunger-strike-students-state-government-set-for-fresh-talks-1786949486050/amp">Jharkhand protest: Devendra Nath Mahto enters 15 days of hunger strike; Students, state government set for fresh talks</a>&nbsp;The protest and hunger strike over alleged irregularities in examinations conducted by the Jharkhand Public Service Commission (JPSC) and Jharkhand Staff Selection Commission (JSSC) entered its 24th day on Monday (Aug 17). The state government is scheduled to hold a fourth round of talks with a delegation of students.&nbsp;Gandhi welcomed the government's efforts to engage with the protesters, noting that an agreement had been reached on several demands even as the agitation continued and some students remained on an indefinite hunger strike.&nbsp;“The youth of India is its future. We owe them our solidarity and support at this moment of crisis. Please do your utmost to hear them out and take appropriate action towards the resolution of this issue,” Gandhi said in his letter.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jharkhand-students-burn-effigies-of-cm-hemant-soren-rahul-gandhi-and-tejashwi-yadav-1786906838384">Jharkhand students burn effigies of CM Hemant Soren, Rahul Gandhi, and Tejashwi Yadav; one tonsures head in ‘mourning’</a> A group of four state ministers, including a Congress minister, has been holding talks with the students. However, a section of the protesters has demanded that Soren personally intervene in the matter.&nbsp;The Jharkhand Police's Crime Investigation Department is investigating the alleged examination irregularities. Twenty people, including former JPSC chairman L Khiangte, have been arrested in connection with the probe.&nbsp;

Rahul Gandhi wrote to Jharkhand CM Hemant Soren, urging him to personally meet students protesting alleged JPSC and JSSC recruitment exam irregularities and resolve their legitimate concerns peacefully.

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has written to Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren, suggesting that he personally meet students protesting against alleged irregularities in recruitment examinations and listen to their concerns. In a letter dated August 14 and released on Monday (Aug 17), Gandhi said the protest had remained peaceful and described the students' demands as legitimate. He said a meeting between Soren and the protesters would reinforce the state government's commitment to resolving the issue. Also read: Jharkhand protest: Devendra Nath Mahto enters 15 days of hunger strike; Students, state government set for fresh talks The protest and hunger strike over alleged irregularities in examinations conducted by the Jharkhand Public Service Commission (JPSC) and Jharkhand Staff Selection Commission (JSSC) entered its 24th day on Monday (Aug 17). The state government is scheduled to hold a fourth round of talks with a delegation of students. Gandhi welcomed the government's efforts to engage with the protesters, noting that an agreement had been reached on several demands even as the agitation continued and some students remained on an indefinite hunger strike. “The youth of India is its future. We owe them our solidarity and support at this moment of crisis. Please do your utmost to hear them out and take appropriate action towards the resolution of this issue,” Gandhi said in his letter. Also read: Jharkhand students burn effigies of CM Hemant Soren, Rahul Gandhi, and Tejashwi Yadav; one tonsures head in ‘mourning’ A group of four state ministers, including a Congress minister, has been holding talks with the students. However, a section of the protesters has demanded that Soren personally intervene in the matter. The Jharkhand Police's Crime Investigation Department is investigating the alleged examination irregularities. Twenty people, including former JPSC chairman L Khiangte, have been arrested in connection with the probe.

Rahul Gandhi wrote to Jharkhand CM Hemant Soren, urging him to personally meet students protesting alleged JPSC and JSSC recruitment exam irregularities and resolve their legitimate concerns peacefully.

‘Please do your utmost to hear them out’: Rahul Gandhi writes to Jharkhand CM Hemant Soren, urges him to meet student protestors

Protesting students against irregularities in the recruitment examinations in Jharkhand are set to hold fresh talks with the State government on Monday (August 17, 2026). This comes with the entry of six agitators on the 24th day of the hunger strike. A day earlier, protesting students burnt the effigies of CM Hemant Soren, Rahul Gandhi and RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav, accusing the JMM-Congress alliance of "failing to take concrete action" on their demands. In addition, Jharkhand student leader Devendra Nath Mahto entered the 15th day of his hunger strike on Monday over alleged irregularities, hoping the fresh round of talks with the state government would yield a positive outcome. Mahto has been on hunger strike since August 2.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/fssai-crackdown-forces-6-companies-to-withdraw-misleading-labels-and-claims-1786943360522">FSSAI crackdown forces 6 companies to withdraw misleading labels and claims</a><h3>Devendra Nath Mahto warns</h3>He warned that the struggle would continue if the government don't meet the students' expectations. "There is hope and faith. But if the government fails to live up to it, the struggle will continue. I hope the talks satisfy the students," he said. The students are set to sit down with a government delegation at Ranchi's State Guest House at 2 pm on Monday, with officials granting permission for the students to have their legal adviser present during the discussions. Mahto stated that the outcome of the talks should be lasting changes to the education and examination system, ensuring paper leaks, malpractice, and other alleged irregularities don't continue to affect students in the future. The student leader also warned that the planned August 20 protests, including surrounding Chief Minister Hemant Soren's residence and the Vidhan Sabha, would proceed as planned if the negotiations don't yield a satisfactory result. On his health, Mahto shared that his blood pressure had been running low and he'd been feeling a heaviness in his head, though rest had brought some relief.

Jharkhand student leader Devendra Nath Mahto entered the 15th day of his hunger strike on Monday over alleged irregularities, hoping the fresh round of talks with the state government would yield a positive outcome.

Protesting students against irregularities in the recruitment examinations in Jharkhand are set to hold fresh talks with the State government on Monday (August 17, 2026). This comes with the entry of six agitators on the 24th day of the hunger strike. A day earlier, protesting students burnt the effigies of CM Hemant Soren, Rahul Gandhi and RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav, accusing the JMM-Congress alliance of "failing to take concrete action" on their demands. In addition, Jharkhand student leader Devendra Nath Mahto entered the 15th day of his hunger strike on Monday over alleged irregularities, hoping the fresh round of talks with the state government would yield a positive outcome. Mahto has been on hunger strike since August 2. Also read: FSSAI crackdown forces 6 companies to withdraw misleading labels and claims Devendra Nath Mahto warns He warned that the struggle would continue if the government don't meet the students' expectations. "There is hope and faith. But if the government fails to live up to it, the struggle will continue. I hope the talks satisfy the students," he said. The students are set to sit down with a government delegation at Ranchi's State Guest House at 2 pm on Monday, with officials granting permission for the students to have their legal adviser present during the discussions. Mahto stated that the outcome of the talks should be lasting changes to the education and examination system, ensuring paper leaks, malpractice, and other alleged irregularities don't continue to affect students in the future. The student leader also warned that the planned August 20 protests, including surrounding Chief Minister Hemant Soren's residence and the Vidhan Sabha, would proceed as planned if the negotiations don't yield a satisfactory result. On his health, Mahto shared that his blood pressure had been running low and he'd been feeling a heaviness in his head, though rest had brought some relief.

Jharkhand student leader Devendra Nath Mahto entered the 15th day of his hunger strike on Monday over alleged irregularities, hoping the fresh round of talks with the state government would yield a positive outcome.

Jharkhand protest: Devendra Nath Mahto enters 15 days of hunger strike; Students, state government set for fresh talks

Students protesting over the alleged irregularities in Jharkhand’s recruitment examinations on Sunday burnt effigies of Chief Minister Hemant Soren, Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi and RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav in Ranchi as their protest entered the 23rd day.&nbsp;The protesting students accused the JMM-Congress alliance government in the state of failing to take concrete action on their demands. They also announced plans to gherao the chief minister’s residence on August 20 and demanded Soren’s resignation.&nbsp;The demonstration began on Sunday with a torchlight march from Jaipal Singh Munda Stadium to Albert Ekka Chowk, where the students burnt the three effigies. The protesters said they would continue the agitation until the government addresses concerns over alleged irregularities in recruitment examinations.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/vande-mataram-row-escalates-bjp-lodges-complaint-against-sonia-gandhi-in-karnataka-1786901165963">Vande Mataram row escalates: BJP lodges complaint against Sonia Gandhi in Karnataka</a>&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><a href="https://x.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Ranchi, Jharkhand | Protest by JPSC-JSSC aspirants | Students protesting against alleged irregularities in Jharkhand&#39;s recruitment examinations burn the effigies of Chief Minister Hemant Soren, Lok Sabha LoP Rahul Gandhi, and RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav. <a href="https://t.co/lFNMd2FA2r">pic.twitter.com/lFNMd2FA2r</a>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://x.com/ANI/status/2088985292581789838?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 16, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;&nbsp;Meanwhile, the state government has invited the students for another round of talks on August 17, reported PTI, citing an official.&nbsp;The students had urged the Congress to withdraw support from the ruling coalition, saying the chief minister was not listening to their concerns.&nbsp;<h2>‘These people are like the dead’: Protester shaves head to ‘mourn’ leaders</h2>&nbsp;In a symbolic protest, one demonstrator even shaved his head and said he was mourning Rahul Gandhi and Hemant Soren. Calling himself their younger brother, Baha Linda, who shaved his head, accused both leaders of failing to support the students.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/telangana-cm-revanth-reddy-accuses-brs-leaders-of-using-black-magic-to-usurp-power-occult-charges-not-new-in-politics-1786884046815">Telangana CM Revanth Reddy accuses BRS leaders of using ‘black magic’ to usurp power; occult charges not new in politics</a>&nbsp;“I am the younger brother of Rahul Gandhi and Hemant Soren. It is my duty to dedicate my body, mind, and resources to their final rites. Once their cremation is over and the ashes remain, I will be the one who has to immerse them in the Swarnarekha Ghat to fulfil a younger brother’s duty,” he told ANI.&nbsp;“You cannot expect anything from the dead. These people are like the dead. They only develop their own families; they are trapped in dynastic politics. They garner votes from Jharkhand but develop only their own families, so one cannot expect much from the dead… I shaved my head. I am observing mourning for my elder brothers Rahul and Hemant Ji,” he added.&nbsp;<h2>‘Rahul Gandhi raising student issues selectively for political benefit’</h2>&nbsp;Another protester accused Rahul Gandhi of raising student issues selectively for his own political benefit.“When the NEET issue arose in Delhi, Rahul Gandhi took the stage and spoke very vocally about it. This implies that if you aren’t speaking up here, then you were merely using our future and the students’ plight to further your own political interests—essentially warming your seat of power at our expense,” he said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-middle-east-commander-visits-uss-lincoln-amid-iran-war-gaza-and-lebanon-tensions-1786882278296">US top commander visits USS Lincoln amid Iran war, Gaza and Lebanon tensions</a>&nbsp;“The government needs to realise that students are becoming increasingly agitated; this is our right, and we will move heaven and earth—we will leave no stone unturned—to secure what is rightfully ours… Our only request to the government is to listen to our demands,” the protester added.&nbsp;<h2>Students demand revocation of whistleblower’s suspension</h2>&nbsp;The JPSC-JSSC Reforms Manch, which is spearheading the agitation, has called for the cancellation of the 14th JPSC examination and a CBI probe into all recruitment examinations.&nbsp;The students also want the findings of the investigation to be made public and action to be taken against those found responsible for alleged irregularities.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-may-stalemate-did-us-manage-to-communicate-directly-with-irgc-top-commander-1786894585305">After May stalemate, US manoeuvred to communicate directly with IRGC top commander</a>&nbsp;They are also demanding revocation of the suspension of finance department section officer Santosh Kumar Mastana and withdrawal of cases filed against him, as he was the ‘whistleblower’.&nbsp;The protesters have said they will not end the agitation until examinations in which irregularities have been alleged are cancelled and an independent investigation is ordered into the recruitment process.The protesters have appealed to students from across Jharkhand to reach Ranchi for the August 20 gherao.

The students demand CBI probe and the findings to be made public and action to be taken against those found responsible for alleged irregularities. They are also demanding revocation of the suspension of the whistleblower finance department section officer Santosh Kumar Mastana.

Students protesting over the alleged irregularities in Jharkhand’s recruitment examinations on Sunday burnt effigies of Chief Minister Hemant Soren, Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi and RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav in Ranchi as their protest entered the 23rd day. The protesting students accused the JMM-Congress alliance government in the state of failing to take concrete action on their demands. They also announced plans to gherao the chief minister’s residence on August 20 and demanded Soren’s resignation. The demonstration began on Sunday with a torchlight march from Jaipal Singh Munda Stadium to Albert Ekka Chowk, where the students burnt the three effigies. The protesters said they would continue the agitation until the government addresses concerns over alleged irregularities in recruitment examinations. Also Read: Vande Mataram row escalates: BJP lodges complaint against Sonia Gandhi in Karnataka

The students demand CBI probe and the findings to be made public and action to be taken against those found responsible for alleged irregularities. They are also demanding revocation of the suspension of the whistleblower finance department section officer Santosh Kumar Mastana.

Jharkhand students burn effigies of CM Hemant Soren, Rahul Gandhi, and Tejashwi Yadav; one tonsures head in ‘mourning’

Jharkhand Loktantrik Krantikari Morcha (JLKM) leader Devendra Nath Mahto is admitted to Sadar Hospital in Ranchi following a day-long protest march to the state Assembly. Mahto, who has been on a hunger strike for the past nine days, joined the protest on stretcher and said that government will be forced to listen to the students. Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) founder Abhijeet Dipke spoke to Mahto via video call on Monday night. Dipke affirmed CJP's support for Mahto and condemned the police brutality during the march. It must be noted that CJP delegation joined the student protest in Ranchi last week and vowed that they would not leave until all demands are met.&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260811/image-1786429810395.png"></figure>&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-calls-for-statewide-shutdown-over-police-action-in-jharkhand-cm-hemant-soren-says-students-misled-for-political-gain-1786420365620">BJP calls for shutdown over police action in Jharkhand, CM Hemant Soren says ‘students misled for political gain’</a>&nbsp;Students in the state continue to protest irregularities in Jharkhand Public Service Commission (JPSC) and Jharkhand Staff Selection Commission (JSSC) examinations. On Monday, protesters took out a 'Vidhan Sabha Gherao' protest march to the state legislative assembly, during which police used baton, tear gas and water cannons to disperse the large crowd.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jharkhand-protesters-try-to-remove-barricades-dance-as-police-use-water-cannons-during-vidhan-sabha-march-watch-1786346056768">Jharkhand protesters try to remove barricades, dance as police use water cannons during Vidhan Sabha march | WATCH</a><h2>‘Mahto is a true hero’: Dipke</h2>CJP's Abhijeet Dipke revealed in a social media post that he spoke to Mahto late night. Mahto also confirmed the same in a post in X. Mahto said that he was lathi-charged by the police and suffered injuries. He is also experiencing chest pain, Dipke said in a post. &nbsp;"Spoke to Devendra Mahto, who has been on a hunger strike for the past 9 days. He told me that before being taken to the hospital, he was lathi-charged by the police and suffered injuries. He is also experiencing chest pain," Dipke wrote in a post on Instagram, sharing a screenshot of his video call with Mahto. Condemning the alleged use of force, the CJP founder further said, “Be it Jantar Mantar or Jharkhand, such police brutality against students is cruel and inhuman.” Dipke affirmed that the CJP firmly stands with Devendra Nath Mahto and his struggle. He called Mahto a "true hero," adding that the movement salutes his courage and strength.

Jharkhand student leader Devendra Nath Mahto was hospitalised after joining a protest march to the Assembly despite being on a nine-day hunger strike. CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke spoke to him and backed his movement, while alleging police brutality during the protest.

Jharkhand Loktantrik Krantikari Morcha (JLKM) leader Devendra Nath Mahto is admitted to Sadar Hospital in Ranchi following a day-long protest march to the state Assembly. Mahto, who has been on a hunger strike for the past nine days, joined the protest on stretcher and said that government will be forced to listen to the students. Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) founder Abhijeet Dipke spoke to Mahto via video call on Monday night. Dipke affirmed CJP's support for Mahto and condemned the police brutality during the march. It must be noted that CJP delegation joined the student protest in Ranchi last week and vowed that they would not leave until all demands are met. Also Read: BJP calls for shutdown over police action in Jharkhand, CM Hemant Soren says ‘students misled for political gain’ Students in the state continue to protest irregularities in Jharkhand Public Service Commission (JPSC) and Jharkhand Staff Selection Commission (JSSC) examinations. On Monday, protesters took out a 'Vidhan Sabha Gherao' protest march to the state legislative assembly, during which police used baton, tear gas and water cannons to disperse the large crowd.

Jharkhand student leader Devendra Nath Mahto was hospitalised after joining a protest march to the Assembly despite being on a nine-day hunger strike. CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke spoke to him and backed his movement, while alleging police brutality during the protest.

'Be it Jantar Mantar or Jharkhand...': CJP's Abhijeet Dipke condemns police brutality, speaks to Devendra Nath Mahto

A day after protesting students in Jharkhand marched to the state Assembly, facing baton, tear gas and water cannons, the BJP called for Jharkhand bandh on Tuesday (Aug 11). The saffron party said that it is in protest against the police action during the protest march in Ranchi. Jharkhand BJP president Aditya Sahu alleged that hundreds of students were injured in the lathi-charge and accused the Hemant Soren-led government of ignoring their demands. BJP Leader of Opposition Babulal Marandi also criticised the police action and asked the Congress party to withdraw its support from Soren government in Jharkhand. Meanwhile, CM Hemant Soren has said that he is ready to listen to the demands of the students. Congress MP Rahul Gandhi also criticised the police action against the students.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/was-cjp-not-controlling-the-protest-what-spokesperson-ashutosh-ranka-told-wion-after-pradhan-s-resignation-1784988293331">Was CJP not controlling the protest? What spokesperson Ashutosh Ranka told WION after Pradhan's resignation</a> &nbsp;The students protesting against irregularities in Jharkhand Public Service Commission – Jharkhand Staff Selection Commission (JPSC-JSSC) examinations marched to the Assembly in Ranchi, a day after the Jharkhand government agreed to cancel three examinations, including the preliminary examination of the 14th JPSC Combined Civil Services. The state government also agreed to the demand of Enforcement Directorate (ED) probe into alleged financial irregularities related to the 14th JPSC exam. However, the government did not agree to trasnfer the case from state CID to CBI. As the march was underway, CID also arrested L Khiangte, the former chief of the Jharkhand Public Service Commission in connection with allegations surrounding the commission’s 14th Civil Services Examination.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/humour-people-power-and-a-political-newbie-how-india-s-gen-z-protest-used-social-media-to-break-the-traditional-agitation-playbook-1785140443421">Humour, people-power and a political newbie: How India's Gen Z protest used social media to break the traditional agitation playbook</a><h2>What Hemant Soren said?</h2>Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren appealed to protesting students to resolve their concerns through dialogue, assuring them that the government would act on their demands. He said the administration was working to make the examination system more transparent, secure and accountable, while urging students not to be misled by opposition political narratives.&nbsp;In a post on X, CM Soren said: “My dear young companions, You have raised your voice for your demands in a peaceful manner. In a democracy, it is your right to express your views, and it is the government’s responsibility to respect your voice. The government has heard you. Our senior ministers have been in constant dialogue with you, and I assure you that action will be taken on your demands with utmost seriousness and sensitivity. In the past few days, you have seen that the government has spared no one, no matter who the guilty party is. Our clear objective is to eliminate such shortcomings in the system so that no student has to face trouble in the future. We want to make the examination system more transparent, technology-enabled, secure, and accountable. Your participation in this change is the most important. Our effort is that Jharkhand should not just discuss problems, but set a new example of solutions from here. I also understand that amidst your peaceful movement, some people from the opposition have tried to spoil the atmosphere and mislead students for political gain. I appeal to all of you not to fall into the trap of any such political narrative. You are the future of Jharkhand. It is not about ignoring your voice, but listening to it and resolving your problems—that is our responsibility. I will reiterate my point: let us resolve this issue together through dialogue and trust. “

A day after the Jharkhand government accepted key demands, including cancelling three exams and an ED probe into the 14th JPSC exam, students marched towards the Assembly. Protest leader Devendra Nath Mahto, on hunger strike, was hospitalised after his health deteriorated.

A day after protesting students in Jharkhand marched to the state Assembly, facing baton, tear gas and water cannons, the BJP called for Jharkhand bandh on Tuesday (Aug 11). The saffron party said that it is in protest against the police action during the protest march in Ranchi. Jharkhand BJP president Aditya Sahu alleged that hundreds of students were injured in the lathi-charge and accused the Hemant Soren-led government of ignoring their demands. BJP Leader of Opposition Babulal Marandi also criticised the police action and asked the Congress party to withdraw its support from Soren government in Jharkhand. Meanwhile, CM Hemant Soren has said that he is ready to listen to the demands of the students. Congress MP Rahul Gandhi also criticised the police action against the students. Also Read: Was CJP not controlling the protest? What spokesperson Ashutosh Ranka told WION after Pradhan's resignation The students protesting against irregularities in Jharkhand Public Service Commission – Jharkhand Staff Selection Commission (JPSC-JSSC) examinations marched to the Assembly in Ranchi, a day after the Jharkhand government agreed to cancel three examinations, including the preliminary examination of the 14th JPSC Combined Civil Services. The state government also agreed to the demand of Enforcement Directorate (ED) probe into alleged financial irregularities related to the 14th JPSC exam. However, the government did not agree to trasnfer the case from state CID to CBI. As the march was underway, CID also arrested L Khiangte, the former chief of the Jharkhand Public Service Commission in connection with allegations surrounding the commission’s 14th Civil Services Examination. Also Read: Humour, people-power and a political newbie: How India's Gen Z protest used social media to break the traditional agitation playbook What Hemant Soren said? Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren appealed to protesting students to resolve their concerns through dialogue, assuring them that the government would act on their demands. He said the administration was working to make the examination system more transparent, secure and accountable, while urging students not to be misled by opposition political narratives. In a post on X, CM Soren said: “My dear young companions, You have raised your voice for your demands in a peaceful manner. In a democracy, it is your right to express your views, and it is the government’s responsibility to respect your voice. The government has heard you. Our senior ministers have been in constant dialogue with you, and I assure you that action will be taken on your demands with utmost seriousness and sensitivity. In the past few days, you have seen that the government has spared no one, no matter who the guilty party is. Our clear objective is to eliminate such shortcomings in the system so that no student has to face trouble in the future. We want to make the examination system more transparent, technology-enabled, secure, and accountable. Your participation in this change is the most important. Our effort is that Jharkhand should not just discuss problems, but set a new example of solutions from here. I also understand that amidst your peaceful movement, some people from the opposition have tried to spoil the atmosphere and mislead students for political gain. I appeal to all of you not to fall into the trap of any such political narrative. You are the future of Jharkhand. It is not about ignoring your voice, but listening to it and resolving your problems—that is our responsibility. I will reiterate my point: let us resolve this issue together through dialogue and trust. “

A day after the Jharkhand government accepted few &nbsp;demands, including cancelling three exams and an ED probe into the 14th JPSC exam, students marched towards the Assembly. Protest leader Devendra Nath Mahto, on hunger strike, was hospitalised after his health deteriorated.

BJP calls for shutdown over police action in Jharkhand, CM Hemant Soren says ‘students misled for political gain’

Student protesters entered the Jharkhand Assembly premises while resisting lathicharge and tear gas even as the House was adjourned for the day as the agitators closed in on the building. Reports said student protesters and police personnel were injured amid the lathicharge and tear gas shelling.&nbsp;The security forces fired tear gas in the air in two to three rounds to control the situation. A section of protesters entered the premises in a symbolic gesture, following which a mild lathicharge was carried out, said reports.&nbsp;Police resorted to lathicharge as JPSC-JSSC aspirants moved closer to the Jharkhand Assembly. Some protesters were reportedly injured but they managed to breach multiple police barricades while marching from the Old Assembly towards the New Assembly even as security forces used water cannons to stop them.&nbsp;Earlier, thousands of students arrived in Ranchi by trains and buses to participate in the march. The police resorted to lathicharge and used water cannons and tear gas to disperse the protesters, even though Chief Minister Hemant Soren had said that dialogue, not batons, can solve all problems.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Government recruitment exam aspirants gather outside Jharkhand Assembly in Ranchi, demanding an independent CBI probe into the JSSC-CGL exam Video: ANI <a href="https://t.co/QopRJaJVrQ">pic.twitter.com/QopRJaJVrQ</a>&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://x.com/WIONews/status/2086786988011913405?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 10, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/as-protests-enter-17th-day-ed-files-case-to-probe-irregularities-in-jpsc-examinations-what-more-students-are-demanding-1786349116393">As protests enter 17th day, ED files case to probe irregularities in JPSC examinations: What more students are demanding?</a><h2>Student leader Devendra Nath Mahto joins march on stretcher</h2>&nbsp;Student leader Devendra Nath Mahto, who has been on a nine-day hunger strike, joined the march to Assembly after arriving in an ambulance and was carried on a stretcher.&nbsp;&nbsp;The march comes a day after the Jharkhand government agreed to cancel three examinations, including the preliminary examination of the 14th JPSC Combined Civil Services. The state government also agreed to the demand of Enforcement Directorate (ED) probe into alleged financial irregularities related to the 14th JPSC exam.&nbsp;<h2>State CID arrests former JPSC chief L Khiangte</h2>&nbsp;Meanwhile, the state’s Criminal Investigation Department, or CID, has arrested L Khiangte, the former chief of the Jharkhand Public Service Commission in connection with allegations surrounding the commission’s 14th Civil Services Examination.Khiangte faces scrutiny as TDPL, a blacklisted company, was empanelled to conduct the JPSC 14th Civil Services Examination.&nbsp;Khiangte, who was former chief secretary of Jharkhand, resigned from his post as JPSC chairman on July 22, 2026. He said that his resignation was intended to ensure a fair investigation into the matter.Before his arrest, Khiangte faced multiple rounds of intensive questioning by the state CID. The questioning reportedly lasted several hours as investigators examined the allegations linked to the examination process.&nbsp;The protesters are demanding a CBI investigation into the allegations.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jharkhand-protesters-try-to-remove-barricades-dance-as-police-use-water-cannons-during-vidhan-sabha-march-watch-1786346056768">Jharkhand protesters try to remove barricades, dance as police use water cannons during Vidhan Sabha march | WATCH</a>&nbsp;Jharkhand witnessed large-scale protests by JSSC CGL aspirants over alleged irregularities in the recruitment process. Students took to the streets in Ranchi, Hazaribagh, Dhanbad, Bokaro and other districts demanding transparency, accountability and an independent probe into the irregularities.&nbsp;The agitation intensified over allegations of question paper leaks, leaked OMR sheets and manipulation in the evaluation process. The state government did not agree to cancel the JSSC CGL examination, making the issue a flashpoint.&nbsp;The government said it cannot unilaterally cancel the JSSC-CGL examination because the matter is linked to judicial directives.&nbsp;<h2>Babulal Marandi demands CBI probe; Rahul slams govt over use of force</h2>&nbsp;Leader of Opposition Babulal Marandi accused the Jharkhand government of failing to address the students’ concerns and demanded a CBI investigation into the alleged JPSC-JSSC examination irregularities.&nbsp;Congress leader Rahul Gandhi criticised the use of force against students protesting in Jharkhand and called for their concerns to be addressed through dialogue.&nbsp;In a post on X, Gandhi said, “Using force against students protesting in Jharkhand is wrong.”&nbsp;Among the major triggers for the protest were paper leaks in recruitment tests conducted by the Jharkhand Public Service Commission (JPSC) and Jharkhand Staff Selection Commission (JSSC).&nbsp;Chief Minister Hemant Soren had earlier assured the protesters that those responsible for irregularities in recruitments tests would face strict action.

Thousands of students arrived in Ranchi by trains and buses to participate in the march. The police resorted to lathicharge and used water cannons and tear gas to disperse the protesters, even though Chief Minister Hemant Soren had said that dialogue, not batons, can solve all problems.

Student protesters entered the Jharkhand Assembly premises while resisting lathicharge and tear gas even as the House was adjourned for the day as the agitators closed in on the building. Reports said student protesters and police personnel were injured amid the lathicharge and tear gas shelling. The security forces fired tear gas in the air in two to three rounds to control the situation. A section of protesters entered the premises in a symbolic gesture, following which a mild lathicharge was carried out, said reports. Police resorted to lathicharge as JPSC-JSSC aspirants moved closer to the Jharkhand Assembly. Some protesters were reportedly injured but they managed to breach multiple police barricades while marching from the Old Assembly towards the New Assembly even as security forces used water cannons to stop them. Earlier, thousands of students arrived in Ranchi by trains and buses to participate in the march. The police resorted to lathicharge and used water cannons and tear gas to disperse the protesters, even though Chief Minister Hemant Soren had said that dialogue, not batons, can solve all problems.

Thousands of students arrived in Ranchi by trains and buses to participate in the march. The police resorted to lathicharge and used water cannons and tear gas to disperse the protesters, even though Chief Minister Hemant Soren had said that dialogue, not batons, can solve all problems.

Jharkhand protesters enter assembly premises, brave lathicharge and tear gas; CID arrests ex-JPSC chief

In a move to contain escalating unrest, the Jharkhand government has initiated separate rounds of talks with prominent student unions and youth organizations regarding controversial recruitment policies and job quota demands.

Jharkhand protests: Students stay firm on CBI investigation demand

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Monday (August 8) filed a money-laundering case to probe alleged irregularities in the Jharkhand Public Service Commission (JPSC) examinations. The move of the investigative agency followed after protests and an indefinite hunger strike in Ranchi against the demand over irregularities entered its 17th day on Monday. Officials confirmed that the arrested individuals have been taken into custody for interrogation. The central financial crimes investigative agency’s case under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) has come up from the Jharkhand Police’s first information report.&nbsp;Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/don-t-do-anything-like-jantar-mantar-devendra-nath-mahto-appeals-for-calm-as-thousands-join-vidhan-sabha-gherao-march-1786346817677"> 'Don't do anything like Jantar Mantar...': Devendra Nath Mahto appeals for calm as thousands join Vidhan Sabha Gherao march</a><h3>Devendra Nath Mahto joins protestors</h3>Meanwhile, thousands of students and job aspirants protesting against alleged irregularities in exams marched to the Jharkhand assembly on Monday. Jharkhand Loktantrik Krantikari Morcha (JLKM) leader Devendra Nath Mahto, who has been on a hunger strike for nine days, also joined the protesting students in their march to the state Assembly. Nath urged the protesters to avoid violence, similar to what happened on July 20 during the Cockroach Janta Party's march to the Parliament over NEET paper leak. While speaking to reporters, he also criticised the state government for ignoring students' demands. Authorities imposed prohibitory orders and deployed more than 1,500 personnel, including Rapid Action Force, Indian Reserve Battalion, police, and Quick Reaction Team members, along the four-km stretch of the march route. Most schools in Ranchi remained closed. The deadlock has persisted despite the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha-led state government holding several rounds of talks with the protesters. The government maintains that 98 per cent of the demands have been accepted, but protesters say they will continue their agitation since the government has agreed to cancel only three of the 13 exams they wanted scrapped.

Officials imposed prohibitory orders and deployed more than 1,500 personnel, including Rapid Action Force, Indian Reserve Battalion, police, and Quick Reaction Team members, along the four-km stretch of the march route. Most schools in Ranchi remained closed.

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Monday (August 8) filed a money-laundering case to probe alleged irregularities in the Jharkhand Public Service Commission (JPSC) examinations. The move of the investigative agency followed after protests and an indefinite hunger strike in Ranchi against the demand over irregularities entered its 17th day on Monday. Officials confirmed that the arrested individuals have been taken into custody for interrogation. The central financial crimes investigative agency’s case under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) has come up from the Jharkhand Police’s first information report. Also read: 'Don't do anything like Jantar Mantar...': Devendra Nath Mahto appeals for calm as thousands join Vidhan Sabha Gherao march Devendra Nath Mahto joins protestors Meanwhile, thousands of students and job aspirants protesting against alleged irregularities in exams marched to the Jharkhand assembly on Monday. Jharkhand Loktantrik Krantikari Morcha (JLKM) leader Devendra Nath Mahto, who has been on a hunger strike for nine days, also joined the protesting students in their march to the state Assembly. Nath urged the protesters to avoid violence, similar to what happened on July 20 during the Cockroach Janta Party's march to the Parliament over NEET paper leak. While speaking to reporters, he also criticised the state government for ignoring students' demands. Authorities imposed prohibitory orders and deployed more than 1,500 personnel, including Rapid Action Force, Indian Reserve Battalion, police, and Quick Reaction Team members, along the four-km stretch of the march route. Most schools in Ranchi remained closed. The deadlock has persisted despite the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha-led state government holding several rounds of talks with the protesters. The government maintains that 98 per cent of the demands have been accepted, but protesters say they will continue their agitation since the government has agreed to cancel only three of the 13 exams they wanted scrapped.

Officials imposed prohibitory orders and deployed more than 1,500 personnel, including Rapid Action Force, Indian Reserve Battalion, police, and Quick Reaction Team members, along the four-km stretch of the march route. Most schools in Ranchi remained closed.

As protests enter 17th day, ED files case to probe irregularities in JPSC examinations: What more students are demanding?

Talks between the protesting JPSC-JSSC aspirants in Jharkhand and government officials failed to yield results on Sunday. Students have vowed to continue their protests until a CBI probe is not announced. Though the government agreed to cancel the 14th JPSC, JPSC Backlog 2023, and JPSC Backlog 2025 exams, it rejected the demand to scrap the CGL examination, saying it was under the &nbsp;court orders that the exams were held for which selection have been made and candidates are already employed.&nbsp;Speaking to reporters after the meeting, Jharkhand minister Sudivya Kumar Sonu said they agreed to about 95 percent of the demands raised by the students. He said that the "Criminal aspects will be investigated by the CID", and regarding issues related to financial transactions Enforcement Directorate will investigate.&nbsp;"Following three days of talks and extensive consultations, and acting on the instructions of CM Hemant Soren, the government decided to address the irregularities associated with the 14th JPSC and the 2023-25 backlog recruitments through a two-pronged approach. Criminal aspects will be investigated by the CID; furthermore, given the financial implications and evidence of illicit financial transactions, a request will be made for an ED investigation," the minister said.<h2>What are students saying?</h2>&nbsp;But the students are not satisfied with the talks and have called for a massive march towards the Jharkhand Assembly on August 10, in which thousands of aspirants expected to participate.“We will march to the Jharkhand Assembly on August 10. We are not ready for any compromise until a CBI probe is announced,” student leaders said after their meeting.&nbsp;the other bone of contention was the students’ demand for cancellation of the CGL examination which the government did not agree to as &nbsp;teh exam was held after court orders for which selection have been made and candidates are already employed, said &nbsp;Jharkhand minister Sudivya Kumar Sonu

Speaking to reporters after the meeting, Jharkhand minister Sudivya Kumar Sonu said they agreed to about 95 percent of the demands raised by the students.

Talks between the protesting JPSC-JSSC aspirants in Jharkhand and government officials failed to yield results on Sunday. Students have vowed to continue their protests until a CBI probe is not announced. Though the government agreed to cancel the 14th JPSC, JPSC Backlog 2023, and JPSC Backlog 2025 exams, it rejected the demand to scrap the CGL examination, saying it was under the court orders that the exams were held for which selection have been made and candidates are already employed. Speaking to reporters after the meeting, Jharkhand minister Sudivya Kumar Sonu said they agreed to about 95 percent of the demands raised by the students. He said that the "Criminal aspects will be investigated by the CID", and regarding issues related to financial transactions Enforcement Directorate will investigate. "Following three days of talks and extensive consultations, and acting on the instructions of CM Hemant Soren, the government decided to address the irregularities associated with the 14th JPSC and the 2023-25 backlog recruitments through a two-pronged approach. Criminal aspects will be investigated by the CID; furthermore, given the financial implications and evidence of illicit financial transactions, a request will be made for an ED investigation," the minister said. What are students saying? But the students are not satisfied with the talks and have called for a massive march towards the Jharkhand Assembly on August 10, in which thousands of aspirants expected to participate. “We will march to the Jharkhand Assembly on August 10. We are not ready for any compromise until a CBI probe is announced,” student leaders said after their meeting. the other bone of contention was the students’ demand for cancellation of the CGL examination which the government did not agree to as teh exam was held after court orders for which selection have been made and candidates are already employed, said Jharkhand minister Sudivya Kumar Sonu

Speaking to reporters after the meeting, Jharkhand minister Sudivya Kumar Sonu said they agreed to about 95 percent of the demands raised by the students.

Jharkhand government agrees to cancel JPSC exam, but students stick to their demand of CBI probe

Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren on Friday reached out to JPSC and JSSC aspirants protesting in Ranchi, saying his government is ready for dialogue and committed to introducing reforms in the recruitment system.&nbsp;The statement came as students continued their agitation at Jaipal Singh Stadium over recruitment examinations in the state. Soren said the government wants to understand the concerns raised by the aspirants and has already established a communication channel.&nbsp;"We have already specified a channel of communication. We are ready to talk. The government is keen to understand the issues faced by every student. We are now trying to take the students' wishes beyond the confines of Jaipal Singh Stadium," CM Soren said.&nbsp;Soren also stressed the need for changes in the system to address the concerns of students."Our goal is to move forward with significant, robust reforms that address these student aspirations in a manner that aligns with their needs."&nbsp;<h2>Jairam Mahato raises questions over exam process</h2>Devendra Nath Mahto, a 35-year-old student activist affiliated with the Jharkhand Loktantrik Krantikari Morcha (JLKM), has been on a hunger strike as part of the ongoing movement. Party MLA Jairam Mahato also raised questions about the integrity of the selection process, citing a case involving the JPSC preliminary examination and its connection to the JSSC CGL results.&nbsp;"The demand is regarding the JPSC preliminary examination. The accused person in this matter had cleared the JSSC CGL examination with second rank, and several members of his family had also passed the exam," Mahato alleged.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-rains-imd-issues-red-alert-as-heavy-showers-trigger-waterlogging-traffic-chaos-and-flight-disruptions-1786105522212">Delhi rains: IMD issues Red alert as heavy showers trigger waterlogging, traffic chaos and flight disruptions</a>&nbsp; Mahato called for a detailed investigation into the candidate's examination history and the company involved in conducting the tests.&nbsp;"Therefore, all examinations in which he appeared, as well as those conducted by the concerned company, should be investigated," he asserted.&nbsp;The protests have focused on demands related to the Jharkhand Public Service Commission and Jharkhand Staff Selection Commission. The issue has also drawn political attention as aspirants continue to press the state government to address their grievances.&nbsp;Congress leader Rahul Gandhi spoke to JPSC and JSSC aspirants over the phone on Thursday.According to JPSC JSSC Reform Manch, the protesting students have formed an 11-member delegation to hold talks with the Jharkhand government. The delegation includes eight student representatives, one lawyer and two technical experts.&nbsp;BJP Lok Sabha MP Nishikant Dubey has also warned that he could go on a hunger strike if the state administration fails to resolve the recruitment and paper leak controversies.&nbsp;Dubey said he would first seek permission from the BJP before taking the step.&nbsp;"Parliament is in session until the 13th. If a decision is not taken by then, a hunger strike is something that requires permission from the party. I have asked the party president for permission. If I receive that permission, I will go on a hunger strike thereafter after the 13th."

Amid continuing protests over alleged JPSC and JSSC irregularities, CM Hemant Soren invited students for dialogue and assured of reforms to address their concerns.

Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren on Friday reached out to JPSC and JSSC aspirants protesting in Ranchi, saying his government is ready for dialogue and committed to introducing reforms in the recruitment system. The statement came as students continued their agitation at Jaipal Singh Stadium over recruitment examinations in the state. Soren said the government wants to understand the concerns raised by the aspirants and has already established a communication channel. "We have already specified a channel of communication. We are ready to talk. The government is keen to understand the issues faced by every student. We are now trying to take the students' wishes beyond the confines of Jaipal Singh Stadium," CM Soren said. Soren also stressed the need for changes in the system to address the concerns of students. "Our goal is to move forward with significant, robust reforms that address these student aspirations in a manner that aligns with their needs." Jairam Mahato raises questions over exam process Devendra Nath Mahto, a 35-year-old student activist affiliated with the Jharkhand Loktantrik Krantikari Morcha (JLKM), has been on a hunger strike as part of the ongoing movement. Party MLA Jairam Mahato also raised questions about the integrity of the selection process, citing a case involving the JPSC preliminary examination and its connection to the JSSC CGL results. "The demand is regarding the JPSC preliminary examination. The accused person in this matter had cleared the JSSC CGL examination with second rank, and several members of his family had also passed the exam," Mahato alleged. Also Read: Delhi rains: IMD issues Red alert as heavy showers trigger waterlogging, traffic chaos and flight disruptions Mahato called for a detailed investigation into the candidate's examination history and the company involved in conducting the tests. "Therefore, all examinations in which he appeared, as well as those conducted by the concerned company, should be investigated," he asserted. The protests have focused on demands related to the Jharkhand Public Service Commission and Jharkhand Staff Selection Commission. The issue has also drawn political attention as aspirants continue to press the state government to address their grievances. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi spoke to JPSC and JSSC aspirants over the phone on Thursday. According to JPSC JSSC Reform Manch, the protesting students have formed an 11-member delegation to hold talks with the Jharkhand government. The delegation includes eight student representatives, one lawyer and two technical experts. BJP Lok Sabha MP Nishikant Dubey has also warned that he could go on a hunger strike if the state administration fails to resolve the recruitment and paper leak controversies. Dubey said he would first seek permission from the BJP before taking the step. "Parliament is in session until the 13th. If a decision is not taken by then, a hunger strike is something that requires permission from the party. I have asked the party president for permission. If I receive that permission, I will go on a hunger strike thereafter after the 13th."

Amid continuing protests over alleged JPSC and JSSC irregularities, CM Hemant Soren invited students for dialogue and assured of reforms to address their concerns.

‘We are ready to talk’: Jharkhand CM Hemant Soren reaches out to protesting students

Imagine you have been preparing for a government job for 3 years and appearing for the different exams, but the paper gets leaked, cancelled or delayed due to some irregularities, at the state level or the central level. This not only drains students' mental well-being but also physical and economical as these exams make aspirants study continuously with no job and no physical activity, always occupied with completing their syllabus for years. The most shocking part comes when the students find that they got 299 marks out of 300 but still could not make it to the result, and those who got fewer marks than the candidates he still able to qualify. So, this is not just an example but a reflection of the destruction of the genuine and poor students' careers who are planning to get either a decent job to bring financial stability for their house or attempting to get a reputed college to accomplish their studies with better infrastructure and good facilities at minimum fees. The anxiety for millions of Indian students no longer begins on exam day, but it starts much earlier. A string of paper leak controversies in recent years, from NEET-UG to state-level recruitment exams, has left aspirants increasingly uncertain about the sanctity of the very systems meant to evaluate them.<h3>Multiple paper leak incidents</h3>The most recent development has been the NEET-UG paper leak incident that led to the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. During the probe of this paper leak, the CBI's chargesheet revealed how subject experts allegedly smuggled exam questions out of the National Testing Agency's own "confidential section", using paper chits, memorised answers, and marked textbook passages. For students who spend years preparing for a single make-or-break exam, revelations like these are more than administrative failures; they strike at the core belief that hard work and merit will be fairly rewarded. Similarly, Students in Jharkhand, especially in Ranchi, have been protesting since July 25, 2026, over alleged irregularities and paper leaks in the 14th JPSC (Jharkhand Public Service Commission) Preliminary Examination, along with wider concerns about the JSSC CGL and other competitive exams. Students have been staging protests over alleged irregularities and paper leaks in the JPSC, JSSC CGL, and various other competitive exams. Other than Jharkhand, several instances of paper leaks or irregularities have been reported in multiple states in the recent past.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cbi-reveals-digital-trail-behind-neet-ug-2026-paper-leak-through-whatsapp-groups-telegram-chats-and-photos-1786097020958">CBI reveals digital trail behind NEET UG 2026 paper leak through WhatsApp groups, Telegram chats and photos</a><h3>How can paper leak affect students?</h3>Seeing this, students who once witnessed exams as a test of preparation and merit-based entry for jobs or colleges are now increasingly seeing it as a lottery vulnerable to manipulation. Continuous incidents, whether real leaks or rumours circulating on social media, can frequently trigger heightened exam anxiety, disrupted sleep, and a creeping sense of helplessness among aspirants who have no control over systemic lapses. Experts have also noted that this uncertainty can significantly affect the psychology of a child, trapping the mind of a young person in a state of chronic stress, anxiety, self-doubt, dysfunctional sleeping patterns, emotional burnout, and constant concern about falling behind other students. Echoing the concern about the rise in stress and anxiety, SeemaRekha, Founder and Managing Director, Antarmanh Consulting, said, "Competitive examinations are often regarded as a passport for future success; however, the uncertainty involved in the process can significantly affect the psychology of a child. The delays, changes in the pattern of the exams, and an uncertain outcome of the process can trap the mind of a young person in the state of chronic stress, which is characterised by the inability to accept and plan one’s future due to the months and even years of hard work." "It can result in anxiety, self-doubt, dysfunctional sleeping patterns, emotional burnout, and constant concern about falling behind other students. In addition, over time, students may start to internalise these labels, only in accordance with their results in exams, thus creating unnecessary stress when encountering failures. It is vital to realise that parents, teachers, and educational institutions should understand the importance of their mental health alongside academic achievements. Talking, keeping a healthy lifestyle, consulting psychologists, and understanding that one examination is not capable of defining a person's abilities is what can help," she added. Highlighting similar concern, Pratishtha Trivedi Mirza, Senior Clinical Psychologist, Amaha, said, "Every year, I meet students who tell me the hardest part isn’t the exam; it’s not knowing, day after day, whether what they’re doing is even enough. Preparing for competitive exams entails no real way to know if you’re on track, and that not-knowing is exhausting in a way people don’t always recognise. It shows up as disrupted sleep, a shorter temper, and self-worth quietly tied to a rank they haven’t earned yet. We usually ask if a student is preparing hard enough. The better question is whether they have one steady thing to depend on through it all, a routine, a person, a relationship, that stays constant no matter how the preparation is going. Most don’t. Uncertainty is hard to remove, but it gets easier to carry when there is one certainty in a student’s life to come back to." This failure doesn't limit students to only emotional distress but, due to delayed results, re-examinations, and legal battles, also affects admission, scholarships, and career plans. For students from smaller towns and modest financial backgrounds, who often pour their family's limited resources into coaching and preparation — a leak-tainted exam can feel like a betrayal of sacrifice as much as a bureaucratic failure.&nbsp;

A string of paper leak controversies in recent years, from NEET-UG to state-level recruitment exams, has left aspirants increasingly uncertain about the sanctity of the very systems meant to evaluate them.

Imagine you have been preparing for a government job for 3 years and appearing for the different exams, but the paper gets leaked, cancelled or delayed due to some irregularities, at the state level or the central level. This not only drains students' mental well-being but also physical and economical as these exams make aspirants study continuously with no job and no physical activity, always occupied with completing their syllabus for years. The most shocking part comes when the students find that they got 299 marks out of 300 but still could not make it to the result, and those who got fewer marks than the candidates he still able to qualify. So, this is not just an example but a reflection of the destruction of the genuine and poor students' careers who are planning to get either a decent job to bring financial stability for their house or attempting to get a reputed college to accomplish their studies with better infrastructure and good facilities at minimum fees. The anxiety for millions of Indian students no longer begins on exam day, but it starts much earlier. A string of paper leak controversies in recent years, from NEET-UG to state-level recruitment exams, has left aspirants increasingly uncertain about the sanctity of the very systems meant to evaluate them. Multiple paper leak incidents The most recent development has been the NEET-UG paper leak incident that led to the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. During the probe of this paper leak, the CBI's chargesheet revealed how subject experts allegedly smuggled exam questions out of the National Testing Agency's own "confidential section", using paper chits, memorised answers, and marked textbook passages. For students who spend years preparing for a single make-or-break exam, revelations like these are more than administrative failures; they strike at the core belief that hard work and merit will be fairly rewarded. Similarly, Students in Jharkhand, especially in Ranchi, have been protesting since July 25, 2026, over alleged irregularities and paper leaks in the 14th JPSC (Jharkhand Public Service Commission) Preliminary Examination, along with wider concerns about the JSSC CGL and other competitive exams. Students have been staging protests over alleged irregularities and paper leaks in the JPSC, JSSC CGL, and various other competitive exams. Other than Jharkhand, several instances of paper leaks or irregularities have been reported in multiple states in the recent past. Also read: CBI reveals digital trail behind NEET UG 2026 paper leak through WhatsApp groups, Telegram chats and photos How can paper leak affect students? Seeing this, students who once witnessed exams as a test of preparation and merit-based entry for jobs or colleges are now increasingly seeing it as a lottery vulnerable to manipulation. Continuous incidents, whether real leaks or rumours circulating on social media, can frequently trigger heightened exam anxiety, disrupted sleep, and a creeping sense of helplessness among aspirants who have no control over systemic lapses. Experts have also noted that this uncertainty can significantly affect the psychology of a child, trapping the mind of a young person in a state of chronic stress, anxiety, self-doubt, dysfunctional sleeping patterns, emotional burnout, and constant concern about falling behind other students. Echoing the concern about the rise in stress and anxiety, SeemaRekha, Founder and Managing Director, Antarmanh Consulting, said, "Competitive examinations are often regarded as a passport for future success; however, the uncertainty involved in the process can significantly affect the psychology of a child. The delays, changes in the pattern of the exams, and an uncertain outcome of the process can trap the mind of a young person in the state of chronic stress, which is characterised by the inability to accept and plan one’s future due to the months and even years of hard work." "It can result in anxiety, self-doubt, dysfunctional sleeping patterns, emotional burnout, and constant concern about falling behind other students. In addition, over time, students may start to internalise these labels, only in accordance with their results in exams, thus creating unnecessary stress when encountering failures. It is vital to realise that parents, teachers, and educational institutions should understand the importance of their mental health alongside academic achievements. Talking, keeping a healthy lifestyle, consulting psychologists, and understanding that one examination is not capable of defining a person's abilities is what can help," she added. Highlighting similar concern, Pratishtha Trivedi Mirza, Senior Clinical Psychologist, Amaha, said, "Every year, I meet students who tell me the hardest part isn’t the exam; it’s not knowing, day after day, whether what they’re doing is even enough. Preparing for competitive exams entails no real way to know if you’re on track, and that not-knowing is exhausting in a way people don’t always recognise. It shows up as disrupted sleep, a shorter temper, and self-worth quietly tied to a rank they haven’t earned yet. We usually ask if a student is preparing hard enough. The better question is whether they have one steady thing to depend on through it all, a routine, a person, a relationship, that stays constant no matter how the preparation is going. Most don’t. Uncertainty is hard to remove, but it gets easier to carry when there is one certainty in a student’s life to come back to." This failure doesn't limit students to only emotional distress but, due to delayed results, re-examinations, and legal battles, also affects admission, scholarships, and career plans. For students from smaller towns and modest financial backgrounds, who often pour their family's limited resources into coaching and preparation — a leak-tainted exam can feel like a betrayal of sacrifice as much as a bureaucratic failure.

A string of paper leak controversies in recent years, from NEET-UG to state-level recruitment exams, has left aspirants increasingly uncertain about the sanctity of the very systems meant to evaluate them.

How repeated paper leaks are breaking students before they begin their journey? EXPLAINED

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CJP's Abhijeet Dipke condemns police brutality in Jharkhand, speaks to Mahto

BJP calls for statewide shutdown over police action in Jharkhand

Jharkhand protesters enter assembly premises; CID arrests former JPSC chief

Jharkhand protests: Students stay firm on CBI investigation demand

ED files money-laundering case to probe irregularities in JPSC examinations

Jharkhand govt agrees to cancel JPSC exam, but students demand CBI probe

‘We are ready to talk’: Jharkhand CM Soren reaches out to protesting students

How are repeated paper leaks breaking students before they begin their journey?