Congress backs Jharkhand students' 15-day protest over exam irregularities

The Congress party has extended support to students in Jharkhand protesting alleged irregularities in competitive exams, with the agitation entering its 15th day. The state government will hold a sixth round of talks with student representatives on August 9, 2026, following five unsuccessful rounds.

The protest, which began on July 25, 2026, is led by students demanding a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) inquiry into the irregularities and the cancellation of the Preliminary Test of the 14th Jharkhand Public Service Commission (JPSC) Civil Services Examination. An 11-member delegation was formed to negotiate with the government. The Jharkhand government has also released a dedicated email ID to gather suggestions from students and stakeholders for policy reforms.

The Criminal Investigation Department (CID) has summoned three serving members of the JPSC for questioning. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has publicly backed the students, emphasizing their fight for justice and better futures. The JPSC-JSSC Reforms Manch has accused the government of political maneuvering to divide protesting students.

Despite ongoing discussions, student leaders have stated that the protest will continue until all demands, including the cancellation of the contested exam, are met.