Jharkhand student protests continue for 16th day; sixth round of talks held as hunger strike takes toll
Ranchi, August 9, 2026: The protest by Jharkhand’s job aspirants over alleged irregularities in recruitment examinations continued in Ranchi on Sunday, entering its 16th day. The agitation centres on allegations concerning the Jharkhand Public Service Commission (JPSC) and Jharkhand Staff Selection Commission (JSSC) examinations.
The protesters are primarily demanding the cancellation of the 14th JPSC Civil Services Examination, an independent investigation into alleged examination irregularities and reforms in the functioning of JPSC and JSSC. Some groups have specifically demanded a CBI probe.
🔴 Latest updates — August 9
- Sixth round of talks: The Jharkhand government held another round of discussions with protesting students on Sunday. Protesters said they remained hopeful of a resolution but continued to press for cancellation of the 14th JPSC examination and reforms in the recruitment system.
- Hunger strike continues: Six protesters are reported to be on indefinite hunger strike. The health of some hunger strikers has deteriorated, with medical teams monitoring them.
- Devendra Nath Mahto’s health worsens: Student leader Devendra Nath Mahto has been on a prolonged hunger strike, with reports on August 9 raising concerns about his deteriorating health.
- Jairam Mahto joins the protest: JLKM MLA Jairam Kumar Mahto observed a one-day fast on August 9 in support of the protesting students and their demands for an investigation into alleged JPSC-JSSC irregularities.
- August 10 march planned: Protesters have announced a planned Vidhan Sabha march on August 10 if their demands are not adequately addressed.
- Earlier talks failed to end the standoff: A second round of government-student talks on August 8 ended without consensus. Protesters said they would continue their agitation until their key demands were addressed.
- Government’s position: Chief Minister Hemant Soren has said the government is committed to dialogue, justice and transparency rather than suppressing the agitation.
