Students, police clash in Jharkhand

Students in Jharkhand clashed with police on Monday as they marched towards the state assembly in Ranchi. After inconclusive talks with the government on Sunday, the protesters broke barriers and neared the assembly building. Initially, police and RAF maintained restraint, but escalated their response with water cannons, tear gas, and batons once the students drew closer.

Several students sustained injuries during the police action, with four policemen also hurt by stone pelters, according to Ranchi City SP Paras Rana. The protesters are demanding significant reforms in the Jharkhand Public Service Commission and Jharkhand Staff Selection Commission, cancellation of several recruitment exams, and an independent probe into alleged irregularities.

Leader Devendra Nath Mahto, on hunger strike, moved towards the assembly in an ambulance and declared the protest would conclude only when demands are met. BJP leaders Babulal Marandi attempted to hold talks with the chief minister's residence but were detained by the police. State Minister Sudivya Kumar Sonu alleged the BJP was exploiting the protest for political gain.