JLKM Leader Detained During Protest Against JSSC CGL Exam; Police Use Force to Disperse Students

Ranchi, Jharkhand: In a significant turn of events, police detained Jharkhand Lok Kalyan Morcha (JLKM) leader Devendranath Mahto during a protest against the Jharkhand Staff Selection Commission (JSSC) Combined Graduate Level (CGL) examination. The incident occurred at the busy Sadabahar Chowk, where Mahto and several student protesters were demonstrating their dissatisfaction with the examination process. 

The protest, which was aimed at highlighting alleged irregularities and issues in the JSSC CGL examination, witnessed heightened tensions as law enforcement personnel intervened. According to eyewitnesses, the protesters were voicing their demands for greater transparency in the recruitment process and urging the government to address their grievances. 

Police Action at the Protest Site 
As the demonstration gained momentum, police officials moved in to disperse the crowd, citing public order concerns. Devendranath Mahto, a prominent figure in the JLKM and a vocal supporter of students’ rights, was taken into custody during the crackdown. The police action also included the use of force to drive away the gathered students, many of whom were reportedly holding banners and chanting slogans against the state recruitment policies. 

Several protesters alleged that the police used excessive force to quell their peaceful agitation. “We were only trying to voice our concerns, but the police treated us like criminals. They lathi-charged and dispersed us without even listening to our issues,” said one of the students present at the site. 

Demands of the Protesters
The agitators, led by Mahto and other student organizations, have been critical of the JSSC’s handling of the recruitment process. Their primary demands include: 
1. Review of the Recruitment Policy: Allegations of unfair practices in the JSSC CGL examination have fueled frustration among aspirants. 
2. Transparency in Exam Processes: Students are calling for greater accountability and clarity in the conduct of competitive exams. 
3. Addressing Regional Concerns: Protesters have also highlighted issues related to reservation policies and job distribution within the state. 

JLKM’s Stance 
JLKM has been at the forefront of student and youth-related issues in Jharkhand. Speaking before his detention, Mahto criticized the government for failing to address the concerns of unemployed youth. He accused the authorities of ignoring widespread discontent over employment opportunities and alleged irregularities in the JSSC exams. 

“This is not just about one exam or one group of students. It is about the future of Jharkhand’s youth. We cannot stand by while the system remains flawed,” Mahto said earlier during the protest. 

Police Justification 
Police officials defended their actions, stating that the protestors did not have prior permission to gather at Sadabahar Chowk. A senior police officer explained, “The protest was disrupting traffic and creating a public nuisance. We had to take necessary action to maintain law and order. Mahto has been detained for questioning, and further steps will be taken based on the situation.” 

Reactions from the Public and Political Circles 
The incident has drawn mixed reactions from political leaders and the general public. While some have condemned the police’s handling of the situation as heavy-handed, others have criticized the protesters for allegedly causing unnecessary disruption. Social media has been abuzz with hashtags like #JharkhandProtest and #JusticeForStudents, reflecting the growing support for the students’ cause. 

What Lies Ahead?
The detention of Mahto and the police action against the students have intensified the ongoing debate about employment policies and the functioning of recruitment commissions in Jharkhand. Many believe this incident could galvanize further protests across the state, as youth frustration continues to grow. 

Meanwhile, student organizations have announced plans for a larger demonstration if their demands are not met. The government, on the other hand, has yet to issue a comprehensive statement addressing the allegations against the JSSC. 

As the situation develops, all eyes remain on how the authorities navigate this rising wave of discontent among Jharkhand’s youth.

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