Official announcements from the Jharkhand state government or credible news sources

BJP Protests in Jharkhand Over 11 Candidate Deaths in Excise Constable Recruitment Drive

Sep 2, 2024, 02:53 AM

In Ranchi, Jharkhand, India, a protest led by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has erupted following the deaths of 11 candidates during the physical test for the Excise Constable recruitment drive. The BJP has accused the state government, led by Chief Minister Hemant Soren, of negligence, with BJP national spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla describing the incident as a 'man-made state-sponsored murder.' Babulal Marandi, Jharkhand BJP President, criticized the government for not providing adequate preparation time for aspirants, suggesting that candidates should be informed three months in advance to allow for proper training. Supriyo Bhattacharya, General Secretary of the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM), acknowledged the seriousness of the issue, noting that medical experts should determine the causes of the deaths. Meanwhile, Jharkhand Police IG (Operation) Amol Vinukant Homkar confirmed the deaths and stated that investigations are underway to determine the causes. Reports indicate that more than 200 candidates are in hospital. The recruitment drive continues, with medical facilities on-site to provide emergency treatment, according to Dr. SK Vinayak.