Ranchi: In Jharkhand’s capital, Ranchi, student anger against paper leaks and rigging in competitive exams continues unabated. On Saturday, the second round of talks between the government and student organizations ended inconclusively. Students have stated that they will continue their protests until they receive written guarantees.
The talks remained inconclusive for the second time.
On Saturday, a high-level ministerial delegation from the Jharkhand government and the protesting students held lengthy discussions. The government attempted to end the protest and find a middle ground, but the students remained firm on their long-standing demands.
The government’s assurances failed to satisfy the students. A previous meeting, held late Friday night, was inconclusive. Now, after the second meeting also failed, tensions between the two sides remain high.
The students’ main demands are complete transparency in examinations like the JPSC and JSSC, a high-level investigation into paper leaks, and strict action against those responsible. The protesters say they want written and concrete guarantees, not just verbal promises.
The next meeting will be held tomorrow at 12 noon
Despite the failure of the talks, the doors to dialogue remain closed. Minister Sanjay Yadav announced that another meeting with student representatives will be held on Sunday, August 10th, at 12 noon. The government considers this meeting very important. It is believed that this time the government may consider new options to calm the students’ anger.
Students have been staging a sit-in and hunger strike at Ranchi’s Jaipal Singh Munda Stadium for several days. A large number of candidates are staying in the capital and protesting against the government.
Jairam Mahato will sit on hunger strike from tomorrow
This movement is now gaining political support. JLKM chief and MLA Jairam Mahto has stood with the students. He has announced a one-day waterless fast on August 9th. Jairam Mahto will begin the fast tomorrow at 6 a.m. in the old assembly complex. He said that he will raise his voice in support of the students by observing a day-long fast.
He also made it clear that he would raise the students’ issue more strongly after the Assembly session ends on August 12th. With the support of political parties, the movement appears to be gaining momentum. Two rounds of talks have failed. All eyes are now on tomorrow’s third meeting and Jairam Mahato’s fast.