Jharkhand job exam stir: Protest enters 21st day, students plan ‘Tiranga Yatra’ on August 15

Protests demanding transparency in Jharkhand recruitment examinations entered their 21st day on August 14, 2026, with students planning a 'Tiranga Yatra' to celebrate India's 80th Independence Day on August 15. The protesters, part of the JPSC-JSSC Reforms Manch, criticized the Ranchi district administration for lodging an FIR over violence during the August 10 march towards the State assembly.

The administration imposed prohibitory orders in a 750-metre radius of the assembly building, leading to 14 police injuries and the use of batons, water cannons, and tear gas shells. No arrests were made yet, and the police are investigating footage for identifying those involved in the violence. Fourteen police personnel were injured during the confrontation, and the police have identified 300 unnamed individuals in connection with the incident.

The State CID has conducted raids on multiple locations to execute arrest warrants against seven accused in cases linked to irregularities in JPSC examinations, leading to the arrest of 20 people, including former JPSC chairperson L. Khiangte. The agitation has received support from various social organizations, authors, and others, who have provided free food to the protesters.

Chief Minister Hemant Soren has assured the protesters of cancellation of the 14th JPSC examination and accused the opposition BJP of using the movement for political gains.