Ranchi, Aug. 5: Students in Jharkhand have intensified their indefinite sit-in protest at Jaipal Singh Munda Stadium, demanding a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into alleged irregularities in the April 14 Jharkhand Public Service Commission (JPSC) examination.

The agitation, which began in late July, centres on allegations of question paper leaks, discrepancies in Optical Mark Recognition (OMR) sheets, and broader concerns over transparency in the state's recruitment process. Protesters are also seeking comprehensive reforms in government recruitment to ensure fair and credible examinations.

In response to the growing agitation, the Jharkhand government has initiated a Criminal Investigation Department (CID) inquiry, made several arrests linked to the alleged irregularities, and postponed certain recruitment examinations. However, students maintain that these measures are inadequate, insisting that only a CBI investigation can ensure an impartial probe.

The protest has intensified, with several students launching a hunger strike to press their demands. Demonstrators say they will continue their agitation until the government agrees to an independent investigation and implements meaningful reforms.

Meanwhile, the role of leaders from the Chhatra Yuva Parishad (CJP) has come under scrutiny. According to protesters, some CJP leaders cited health issues as the reason for not joining the demonstrations in Ranchi but reportedly travelled to Maharashtra later the same day to attend a strategy meeting.

The development has sparked disappointment among a section of the protesting students, who have questioned the organisation's on-ground commitment to the movement. While acknowledging that CJP leaders have extended support through phone calls and continue to advocate for employment and education-related issues, some protesters believe their physical absence has weakened morale at the protest site.

The agitation continues amid mounting pressure on the state government, with students reiterating that their demands will remain unchanged until a CBI probe is ordered and reforms are initiated in the recruitment system.