Story perspectives

Jharkhand Cancels JSSC-CGL Exam After Protests, 2,000 Jobs Fear

8/19/2026

Summary

Mahto Ends Strike

On August 18 2026, the Jharkhand Government cancelled the JSSC-CGL exam and 44 other recruitment exams after protests.
Activist Devendra Nath Mahto ended his 16-day hunger strike in Ranchi on the same day following the cancellations.
Protesters continue demanding a Central Bureau of Investigation probe while the Criminal Investigation Department opened an inquiry, arresting the Jharkhand Public Service Commission chief.
More than 2,000 employees who joined after December 2025 protested in Ranchi, fearing job loss.

Summary

Khiangte Arrested

CID searched the homes of JSSC Secretary Sudhir Gupta and B.N. Ram, secretary to JPSC member Ajita Bhattacharya.
JPSC chairman L. Khiangte, arrested on August 10, 2026, was placed in judicial custody after 48 hours of interrogation.
Opposition leader Babulal Marandi posted on X congratulating students and demanding a CBI probe while criticizing CM Hemant Soren.

History

Historical Context

Since its creation on 15 Nov 2000, the Jharkhand Public Service Commission has seen exam scandals, notably a 2022 Patwari paper leak involving 36 candidates. The issue echoes the 2018 Staff Selection Commission leak controversy, leading activists such as Devendra Nath Mahto to call for a CBI probe after the August 2026 cancellation of the JSSC-CGL and 44 other recruitment tests.

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Mahto Ends Strike

On August 18 2026, the Jharkhand Government cancelled the JSSC-CGL exam and 44 other recruitment exams after protests.
Activist Devendra Nath Mahto ended his 16-day hunger strike in Ranchi on the same day following the cancellations.
Protesters continue demanding a Central Bureau of Investigation probe while the Criminal Investigation Department opened an inquiry, arresting the Jharkhand Public Service Commission chief.
More than 2,000 employees who joined after December 2025 protested in Ranchi, fearing job loss.

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