Jharkhand exam cancellations unsettle govt recruits

The government of Jharkhand has terminated 22 recruitment exams and initiated investigations into 23 others conducted by the state's public service commission and an external agency since 2014. This decision came following a 26-day student protest over allegations of irregularities in government recruitment exams. The cancellations have unsettled candidates who had already passed the exams and secured positions in various government departments.

Among the cancelled tests was the Jharkhand Staff Selection Commission Combined Graduate Level examination, which led to around 2,000 successful candidates marching in protest in Ranchi. Candidates demanded an independent investigation and accountability for those found guilty, rather than the cancellation of their hard-earned jobs.

The government has emphasized its intent to restore confidence in the recruitment system and has promised to address paper leaks and other irregularities through a fast-track court and monitoring committees. The student protest has entered its 23rd day, with students planning to burn effigies of Chief Minister Hemant Soren and Congress leader Rahul Gandhi.