On Day 12 of Students' Protest, Hemant Soren Assures Fair Resolution in Exam Row

Ranchi: The protest by students in Jharkhand over the alleged irregularities in the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET-UG) has entered its twelfth day, with Chief Minister Hemant Soren saying the government is taking the examination row "very seriously."

Speaking to reporters, Soren said the state administration was in constant touch with the demonstrators and was examining all aspects of the matter. "We understand the concerns of the students. The government is taking the matter very seriously, and it will be resolved in a fair and transparent manner," he said.

The students, who have been camping at several locations in Ranchi and other districts, are demanding a re-test and a comprehensive investigation into the alleged paper leak and other malpractices. They have also called for stringent action against those found guilty.

The protest, which began as a small gathering, has drawn hundreds of medical aspirants from across the state. The demonstrators have maintained a peaceful stance, and the district administration has arranged for security, drinking water, and medical facilities at the protest sites.

The NEET-UG examination, conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA), has been engulfed in controversy after allegations of paper leaks, grace marks, and other irregularities surfaced in various states. The issue prompted widespread protests in several parts of the country, including Jharkhand.

While NEET is a central examination, the state government plays a key role in maintaining law and order and addressing the grievances of students. Soren's intervention is seen as an attempt to pacify the agitated aspirants and ensure a resolution.

Political parties in the state, including the opposition, have extended support to the students' demands. Some have urged the government to raise the matter with the Centre and push for a re-conduct of the examination.

Parents of the aspirants have also appealed to the Chief Minister to safeguard the future of their children. Many students have said they will continue the protest until their demands are met.

The Jharkhand High Court has taken cognisance of the matter and has sought responses from the concerned authorities. The court is expected to hear petitions related to the exam controversy in the coming days.

On the ground, the protest site has been buzzing with slogans and placards, with students holding banners that read "We want justice" and "Re-test now." The atmosphere remains tense yet orderly, with the police keeping a watch.

As the agitation completes 12 days, questions are being raised over the delay in finding a solution. Political observers point out that the issue could have an impact on the electoral dynamics in the state, given the significant participation of young voters.

In his media interaction, Soren assured that a delegation of students would be invited for a dialogue. He reiterated that the government is committed to protecting the interests of the students and will act in accordance with the law.

The standoff in Jharkhand is being closely watched nationally, as similar protests have emerged in other states. The controversy has reignited the debate on the credibility of high-stakes examinations and the need for reforms in the testing process.

For now, the students remain resolute. The next move by the government, observers say, will be crucial in shaping the outcome of this prolonged agitation.