Story perspectives

Jharkhand Cancels JPSC Exam Amid 18-Day Protests

8/12/2026

Summary

Story summary

Jharkhand government cancelled the JPSC exam and other exams on August 9 2026 after protests.
Police chief Paras Rana reported officers used water cannons, batons and tear gas on August 10 2026, injuring police.
Former JPSC chair L. Khiangte was arrested on August 10 2026, raising CID arrests to 20.
Chief Minister Hemant Soren (JMM) urged dialogue and formed a committee on August 10 2026.
Protesters entered their 18th day on August 11 2026 demanding a CBI inquiry and exam reforms.

History

Historical Context

In August 1990 the V. P. Singh government announced the Mandal Commission’s 27 % OBC reservation for central jobs, sparking nationwide student bandhs and self-immolations that killed over 60 protestors. The Supreme Court upheld the order on 16 November 1992, cementing the policy’s legitimacy. Today, Jharkhand’s Chief Minister Hemant Soren and police face similar exam-related protests, echoing the earlier anti-reservation unrest.

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Story summary

Jharkhand government cancelled the JPSC exam and other exams on August 9 2026 after protests.
Police chief Paras Rana reported officers used water cannons, batons and tear gas on August 10 2026, injuring police.
Former JPSC chair L. Khiangte was arrested on August 10 2026, raising CID arrests to 20.
Chief Minister Hemant Soren (JMM) urged dialogue and formed a committee on August 10 2026.
Protesters entered their 18th day on August 11 2026 demanding a CBI inquiry and exam reforms.

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