New Delhi: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has voiced support for students protesting in Ranchi over alleged irregularities in government recruitment examinations, calling on governments at every level to listen to students and address problems within the education and recruitment system.
During a social media interaction, Gandhi said student protests across the country reflect wider concerns about an education system that he described as unaffordable and oppressive. He stressed that whether a government is led by the Centre, Jharkhand or the Congress, students’ concerns should be heard and meaningful reforms should follow.
The Congress, which is part of the ruling alliance in Jharkhand, has also backed the protesters. Party president Mallikarjun Kharge said the Congress would stand with students irrespective of whether the party was in power or part of an alliance, and would take up their concerns with the state government.
Jharkhand Congress leaders have already met Chief Minister Hemant Soren and submitted a memorandum outlining the demands of the protesters. The party welcomed the government’s decision to form a ministerial committee to engage with the students and work towards possible solutions.
The protest, led by the JPSC JSSC Reforms Manch, entered its 13th day on Thursday. Six protesters were observing a hunger strike, while an 11 member delegation was formed to begin discussions with the government.
The agitation began on July 25 at Jaipal Singh Munda Stadium in Ranchi and has emerged as a major student movement in the state. Protesters are seeking cancellation of the 14th Jharkhand Public Service Commission Civil Services Examination and an independent investigation into alleged irregularities. They have demanded either a CBI probe or an inquiry by retired High Court judges from outside Jharkhand.
Soren has said the government is taking the allegations seriously and that investigation agencies are pursuing those responsible. He has also assured students that the government’s doors remain open and that their demands will be examined before a concrete solution is announced.
With the Congress backing the agitation and government representatives preparing for talks, efforts are now focused on resolving the standoff and addressing the concerns of Jharkhand’s job aspirants.
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