11 Deaths During Jharkhand Constable Fitness Test Spark Controversy, 3 Main Reasons Identified

The recruitment process for excise constables in Jharkhand has turned grim as the physical tests have led to the tragic deaths of 11 candidates. Many others are reported to be ill and receiving medical treatment. This disturbing trend has raised serious concerns about the safety and conditions of the recruitment process.

BJP state president Babulal Marandi sharply criticised the government, accusing it of substituting job opportunities with fatalities. This government is not providing jobs but instead offering death, Marandi stated.

In response to the crisis, both the Jharkhand Police Headquarters and the state government have taken emergency measures. New guidelines have been issued, including the provision of drinking water stations at selection centres, and the deployment of medical teams with necessary beds and medications.

Initial investigations suggest three primary factors contributing to the candidates’ deaths, though a definitive cause has yet to be determined. The situation continues to evolve as authorities seek to address and mitigate the risks associated with the recruitment process.

Initial investigations have pointed to these three reasons:

1. Extreme Heat: Candidates are experiencing health crises due to running in extreme heat, leading to fainting and deteriorating health conditions.
2. Use of Stimulants: There are reports that some candidates have used performance-enhancing injections to boost stamina during the race, which may be adversely affecting their health.
3. Inadequate Facilities: Insufficient arrangements, including a lack of drinking water, at the recruitment centres are contributing to candidates’ distress and fainting.

Eleven candidates died while undertaking physical tests during a drive to recruit excise constables in Jharkhand, police said on Sunday. Physical tests under the Jharkhand excise constable competitive examinations began on August 22 in seven centres across Ranchi, Giridih, Hazaribag, Palamu, East Singhbhum and Sahebganj districts.

The final cause of these deaths will be clarified following a detailed investigation. An unnatural death (UD) case has been filed for the deceased candidates, and further investigations are underway to determine the exact causes of death.

Police spokesperson Amol V Homkar provided an update, stating that out of the 1,27,772 candidates who participated in the physical selection process, 78,023 were successful, including 56,441 men and 21,582 women. Homkar said adequate arrangements, including medical teams, medicines, ambulance, mobile toilets and drinking water, were ensured at all centres.

The incident has sparked controversy with BJP Rajya Sabha MP Aditya Sahu criticising the government’s appointment policies and calling for Rs 50 lakh compensation for the families of the deceased candidates, along with job provisions for their dependents.

Alleging that the deaths happened due to mismanagement by the authorities, the BJP youth wing demonstrated against the JMM-led government in Ranchi’s Albert Ekka Chowk.

In response, JMM spokesperson Manoj Pandey urged against politicising the issue, emphasising that the government was committed to addressing the matter seriously and supporting the families affected by this tragedy.