Students in Ranchi, Jharkhand, continued protests on August 6 over alleged irregularities in recruitment examinations, with their movement entering its 13th day after beginning on July 25. They demand cancellation of the 14th Jharkhand Public Service Commission civil service examination, a CBI probe into the alleged question-paper leak and examination scandal, and broad reforms to examination procedures. They also seek a fixed deadline for a re-examination within six months if the test is cancelled.

JPSC-JSSC Reforms Forum spokesperson Jiban Kumar said five people, including two women, had joined the hunger strike to strengthen the movement and increase pressure for their demands. Six protesters are continuing an indefinite fast. Jharkhand Loktantrik Krantikari Morcha leader Devendra Nath Mahato has fasted since August 2, and concerns have been raised over his falling blood sugar and blood pressure.

The BJP said it would raise the issue in the assembly, while Congress, an ally of the JMM-led government, expressed support for the students. Student leaders warned of an assembly gherao on August 10 if demands are unmet. Ranchi authorities imposed Section 144 within a 750-metre radius of the assembly from August 6 to 12. CID investigators have arrested 19 people and questioned former JPSC chairman L. Khiyangte.