Jharkhand Police used tear gas, batons and water cannon to disperse thousands of youth protesters as they marched on the state legislature in Jharkhand state on Monday over alleged wrongdoing in civil service examinations.
Students and unemployed youth in Jharkhand, one of India's poorer states, launched the protests late last month over the alleged wrongdoing including recruitment test paper leaks.
The protest comes after weeks of youth-led demonstrations in the capital, Delhi, also connected to exam paper leaks, which prompted the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan last month.
Protesters in Jharkhand are calling for a comprehensive reform of the state’s examination system, the annulment of certain tests, and a federal police investigation.
Former Jharkhand Chief Minister Champai Soren took to X, to express his support for youths on the Ranchi streets and to criticize Jharkhand Government refusal to hand over the JPSC case to CBI for further investigation.
The protest began on July 25 and intensified after thousands gathered at a stadium in the state capital, Ranchi.
On Monday, they advanced toward the state legislature, pushing past police barricades, carrying placards, brandishing the national flag, and chanting slogans under tight security.
Some demonstrators pressed against the barricades and clashed with police, who responded by firing tear gas, deploying water cannons, and striking them with batons, according to television footage.
Police said they had to use mild force after some protesters became violent.
We displayed only limited force for a very brief period because they are merely students," Ranchi city police chief Paras Rana told ANI news agency.
"I urge everyone to remain calm and avoid violence. Students concerns are being heard by the government, so please do not act aggressively."
The state government – ruled by a regional party opposed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi – has held talks with the protesters. It said a majority of their demands had been accepted and that it was open to more talks.
