August 11, 2026 9:20 PM.
A BJP-called Jharkhand bandh affected normal life in several parts of the state today, with party workers protesting against the alleged lathi-charge on students during yesterday’s Assembly march.
In Ranchi, ABVP workers attempted to march from the Old Vidhan Sabha towards the New Vidhan Sabha over alleged irregularities in JPSC and JSSC examinations, but were stopped by police and detained.
More than 200 ABVP workers, including senior office-bearers, were reportedly taken into custody and kept at a camp jail in Khelgaon.
The student agitation, now in its 18th day, continued at Jaipal Singh Munda Stadium, with protesters reiterating their demands for cancellation of disputed examinations, a CBI probe and reforms in the recruitment process.
Several students continued their hunger strike, while student leader Devendra Nath Mahto remained admitted to Ranchi Sadar Hospital and reiterated that his fast would continue until justice is delivered.
Meanwhile, protesters organised a silent march in Ranchi, maintaining that their movement would remain peaceful and democratic despite the police action. BJP workers in Giridih and Ramgarh also staged road blockades and protests as part of the statewide bandh.
The developments have intensified the political confrontation, with opposition parties demanding accountability for the police action and supporting the students’ demands.