Students Burn Effigies of Hemant Soren, Rahul Gandhi in CBI Probe Demands

On August 16, protesting students in Ranchi and other districts of Jharkhand burnt effigies of Hemant Soren and Rahul Gandhi, alleging the state government's lack of seriousness regarding their demand for a CBI probe into exam irregularities. Students have been gathering since July 25 at Jaipal Singh Munda Stadium, demanding a CBI inquiry into alleged job selling in competitive exams. Despite Congress leader Rahul Gandhi’s promise to withdraw support if demands were unmet by Independence Day, the government has not taken concrete steps. The state government invited protest leaders for talks on August 17. Babulal Marandi highlighted students' resolve against the government's perceived arrogance.