Ranchi, Aug 11:.
The BJP on Monday condemned the Jharkhand Police’s use of water cannons, tear gas and lathi-charge against job aspirants protesting in Ranchi over alleged irregularities in recruitment examinations.
Thousands of protesters marching towards the Jharkhand Assembly breached multiple barricades during a “Vidhan Sabha Gherao” protest, prompting police action near Jagannathpur Temple.
Several protesters claimed they were injured, while the Assembly was later adjourned for the day.
Union Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth called the lathi-charge unjustified, questioning the use of razor wire and water cannons against students carrying the national flag.
BJP MPs Tejasvi Surya, Nishikant Dubey and Jagdambika Pal also criticised the Jharkhand government and accused the Congress-backed alliance of using force against students.
The BJP repeatedly questioned Congress leader Rahul Gandhi’s silence on the protests, accusing him of “double standards” for raising student issues nationally while remaining silent on the Jharkhand agitation.
The protesters have been demonstrating for 17 days, demanding reforms and action over alleged JPSC and JSSC exam irregularities.