Jharkhand High Court Upholds Stay on JPSC Exam Cancellation; Next Hearing Scheduled for September 15

Ranchi, August 21: The Jharkhand High Court held a hearing on Friday regarding the cancellation of the 11th and 13th Joint Civil Services Examinations by the Jharkhand Public Service Commission (JPSC). During the proceedings, the court directed the state government, petitioners, and other parties to submit their responses. The next hearing is set for September 15, with the court emphasizing that the case will be fast-tracked.

Advocate Prerna Jhunjhunwala, representing the petitioners, stated that the court clarified the need for all parties to file written responses after hearing their arguments. She noted that the court recognized the interests of both successful and unsuccessful candidates, deeming the matter significantly impactful.

The court imposed a stay on the notification that led to the exam’s cancellation. It also clarified that candidates who have already been appointed based on the canceled exams will continue to work legally and will not be removed.

Prerna Jhunjhunwala mentioned that she was presenting the petitioners’ case and that the court had set the next hearing date after considering all arguments.

On the other hand, Advocate Kumar Harsh, representing the intervenors, indicated that they had filed an application on behalf of meritorious candidates. He referred to the interim relief previously granted in the case related to the 11th and 13th JPSC exams, which the petitioners sought to extend, a request the court accepted.

Kumar Harsh questioned the state government’s role, stating that it is responsible for presenting documents and evidence related to the corruption allegations that led to the exam cancellations. He accused the state government of opposing the intervenors’ application rather than addressing the petitioners’ claims.

He urged the court to require the state government to submit all facts and documents revealed by investigative agencies along with their affidavit. However, the state government opposed this, claiming the court could not issue such a directive.

Kumar Harsh asserted that the court’s decision would be based on evidence, which is the state’s obligation to provide. He emphasized that as affected parties, the intervenors have the right to present their case, and the truth will only emerge when all relevant documents are submitted to the court.

The High Court will reconvene on September 15 to consider responses and affidavits from all parties, including the state government.