Three members of the Jharkhand Public Service Commission (JPSC) have resigned amid growing protests by job aspirants over alleged irregularities in recruitment examinations, including claims of question-paper leaks and other lapses in the examination process.
The resignations of Ajeeta Bhattacharya, Anima Hansda and Jamal Ahmad were accepted by Jharkhand Governor Santosh Kumar Gangwar on Sunday, August 9, following a recommendation from the state government. The development comes at a time when thousands of students have been protesting in Ranchi, demanding greater transparency and accountability in government recruitment.
The controversy has intensified over allegations of irregularities in examinations conducted by recruitment bodies in the state. Protesters have demanded action against those responsible for alleged paper leaks, cancellation or review of disputed examinations, transparency in evaluation and a more reliable recruitment system.
The resignations also came after the Jharkhand CID reportedly summoned the three JPSC members for questioning in connection with allegations of irregularities, including paper leaks. The move has added to the pressure surrounding the commission and its functioning.
Student groups have continued their agitation despite assurances from the government. On Monday, protesters marched towards the Jharkhand Assembly after talks with the state government failed to resolve their concerns. Students have rejected the government's claim that most of their demands have already been addressed. According to protest leaders, only three of the 13 examinations they sought to have cancelled have actually been scrapped.
Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren has appealed to protesting youths to resolve the issue through dialogue and has urged them not to allow the movement to become politicised.
The latest developments have placed renewed focus on the credibility of competitive examinations in Jharkhand. For thousands of aspirants who spend years preparing for government jobs, allegations of leaks, delays or irregularities can have serious consequences.
The JPSC has already published its 2026 examination calendar, covering several recruitment and civil services examinations. The ongoing controversy is now likely to increase pressure on the authorities to strengthen examination security, ensure transparent investigations and restore the confidence of candidates.
The resignations mark a significant development in the ongoing recruitment controversy, but protesters have made it clear that they want concrete action and systemic reforms before calling off their agitation.
