The deaths of 12 candidates during a physical fitness test for excise constable recruitment in Jharkhand have triggered widespread criticism of the Hemant Soren-led government. With state assembly elections approaching, this tragic incident has cast doubt on the administration's ability to handle critical issues effectively.

What was intended to be a promising opportunity for young job seekers in Jharkhand has turned into a devastating tragedy, exposing the alleged negligence and mismanagement by the state government. The opposition, particularly the BJP, has strongly condemned the incident, accusing the Hemant Soren administration of putting lives at risk through incompetence.

Negligence or Mismanagement? Public Outrage Grows

Since the recruitment drive started on August 22, 12 candidates have died while undergoing physically demanding tests across various districts, including Palamu, Giridih, Hazaribagh, Ranchi, East Singhbhum, and Sahibganj. Over 100 more candidates fainted and required hospitalization, highlighting the lack of adequate safety measures in place.

The deaths have sparked outrage among the state’s youth, many of whom are now questioning the government’s handling of the recruitment process. The failure to ensure proper safety protocols has dashed the hopes of countless job aspirants and cast a shadow over the administration’s competence.

Inadequate Response from the Government

Critics have expressed disappointment with the government’s response to the crisis. Instead of focusing on the health risks faced by the candidates, the administration has been more concerned with bureaucratic procedures. Measures such as conducting exams early in the morning to avoid heat and providing basic medical assistance at exam centers have been deemed superficial and insufficient.

Political Backlash Intensifies

The tragedy has ignited a political storm in Jharkhand, with the BJP accusing the Hemant Soren government of pushing job seekers into a "death race." The BJP has demanded compensation and government jobs for the families of the deceased candidates and called for a full investigation into the incident.

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, who is co-in-charge of the Jharkhand BJP Assembly elections, announced that the party would seek a probe by the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) into the deaths. He also demanded a compensation of Rs 50 lakh and a job for each victim’s family. Sarma warned that if the government fails to act, the BJP will fulfill these demands when they come to power in Jharkhand.

Victims’ Families Demand Justice

The families of the deceased candidates are calling for justice and reforms to prevent such tragedies in the future. Ensuring the safety of candidates during recruitment processes should be a top priority for any responsible government, and the failure to do so in this case has shattered public confidence in the Soren administration.

As pressure mounts on the government to implement reforms, the well-being and safety of citizens must take precedence. Strengthening safety protocols during public recruitment exams is essential to prevent further loss of life. How the government handles these reforms will be closely watched by all stakeholders in the coming months.

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