Jharkhand recruitment drive tragedy: 12 dead, allegations of Hemant Soren’s mismanagement

PTC News Desk: The recent deaths of 12 candidates during a physical fitness test for excise constable recruitment in Jharkhand have ignited a political firestorm, exposing serious flaws in the governance and administrative capabilities of Chief Minister Hemant Soren’s administration. With Jharkhand’s assembly elections on the horizon, this tragedy has become a significant liability for Soren’s government.

A Tragic Recruitment Drive

What was intended to be a promising opportunity for the state’s youth has turned into a devastating ordeal. The recruitment drive, which began on August 22, has seen 12 candidates lose their lives while undergoing strenuous physical tests.

These deaths have occurred across several districts: four in Palamu, two each in Giridih and Hazaribagh, and one each in Ranchi, East Singhbhum, and Sahibganj. Additionally, over 100 candidates have fainted and required hospitalisation, highlighting the severe inadequacy of safety measures implemented by the state government.

Government’s Response Under Scrutiny

The tragedy has prompted severe criticism of the Soren administration. The government’s response has been described as inadequate and superficial. Instead of addressing the immediate health risks faced by candidates, the administration has focused on procedural compliance. The safety measures, such as holding exams early to avoid excessive heat and providing medical assistance at exam centers, have proven to be ineffective.

Opposition Criticises Mismanagement

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has seized on the situation to attack the Hemant Soren government. The BJP has accused the administration of negligence, terming the recruitment drive a “death race” and demanding compensation and government jobs for the victims’ families.

Himanta Biswa Sarma, the BJP’s co-in-charge for Jharkhand Assembly elections and Chief Minister of Assam, has called for a probe by the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) into the deaths. Sarma has also demanded Rs 50 lakh in compensation and a job for the families of the deceased candidates, threatening that the BJP will provide jobs if the current government fails to act.

Call for Systemic Reforms

The tragic deaths have fueled demands for systemic reforms to prevent such incidents in the future. The families of the victims are seeking justice and assurances from the government to prevent the recurrence of such tragedies. The administration is under pressure to take concrete steps to address these concerns and restore public confidence.

As the situation unfolds, it is crucial for the Jharkhand government to prioritize the safety and well-being of its citizens. Effective safety measures during public recruitment processes are essential to prevent further loss of life. The current crisis underscores the urgent need for reforms within Jharkhand’s administrative structure, and the commitment of the government to these reforms will be closely scrutinised by all stakeholders.