Jharkhand Halts Excise Constable Recruitment After Candidate Deaths

Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren announced a temporary halt to the recruitment drive for excise constables following the deaths of several candidates during physical tests. He stated that the recruitment process would be paused for three days, and physical tests would not be conducted after 9 am.

Soren shared on X that a committee of health experts has been formed to investigate the cause of these deaths. "I have issued instructions to halt the excise constables’ recruitment drive for three days. The physical tests, too, will not be held after 9 am," he said. The panel is expected to submit its findings soon.

Health and Safety Measures

The Chief Minister described the deaths as tragic and called for an immediate review of rules established by the previous administration. He assured that doctors would be available for health check-ups before physical tests and that breakfast or fruits would be provided to ensure candidates do not participate on an empty stomach.

Immediate relief measures are being provided to the families of the deceased candidates. The BJP claims that 15 candidates have died, while Jharkhand Police reports 12 deaths. Health Minister Banna Gupta has reported four deaths.

Recruitment Drive Details

The recruitment process for excise constables began on August 22 across seven centres in six districts, aiming to fill 583 positions. The tests were scheduled to continue until September 9. As of August 30, 127,772 aspirants had participated in the physical tests, with 78,023 passing successfully.

The Chief Minister's decision aims to address safety concerns and prevent further tragedies during the recruitment process. The committee's report will guide future actions to ensure candidate safety.

Efforts are being made to provide support and relief to affected families while ensuring a thorough investigation into the causes of these unfortunate incidents.