‘We Will Listen, Not Use Force’

Jharkhand Education Minister Sudivya Kumar Sonu assures students of dialogue

metro india news I ranchi

Jharkhand Education Jharkhand Higher Education Minister Sudivya Kumar Sonu has reaffirmed the State government's commitment to resolving the ongoing student protests through dialogue rather than force, declaring that democratic engagement remains the administration's guiding principle.

In an exclusive interview with News Pinch, Sonu said the government would never use force against protesting students, drawing a contrast with incidents reported at Delhi's Jantar Mantar. "We will not have lathis used on children like at Jantar Mantar. It is their democratic right. We will listen," the minister said.

His remarks come as students continue their peaceful protest at Jaipal Singh Munda Stadium in Ranchi over alleged irregularities in recruitment examinations conducted by the Jharkhand Public Service Commission (JPSC) and Jharkhand Staff Selection Commission (JSSC).

The protests, now in their second week, seek greater transparency, accountability and reforms in the recruitment process. Rather than viewing the demonstrations as a law-and-order issue, the Hemant Soren-led government has described them as an opportunity to address legitimate concerns through discussion.

Sonu said the government had already initiated several measures after receiving complaints. These include ordering a Crime Investigation Department (CID) inquiry, conducting raids and making arrests where irregularities were detected. The district administration has also invited student representatives for formal talks.

According to the minister, the students responded positively to the government's outreach, paving the way for discussions aimed at finding practical solutions. He stressed that dialogue remains the only democratic way to resolve disputes. "In a democracy, dialogue and discussion are the only ways to resolve any issue," Sonu said, adding that the government respects the constitutional rights of students to protest peacefully.

The interview has received wide attention on social media, with clips circulating on X and other platforms. During the conversation, Sonu maintained that the government acted promptly on early indications of irregularities instead of waiting for political pressure to mount. He said restoring trust in recruitment systems is essential because thousands of young aspirants depend on fair examinations for their careers. Ensuring transparency and accountability, he added, remains a priority for the government.

Observers have noted that the Ranchi protests have remained peaceful. Students have organised marches, including a Tiranga Yatra, while focusing on demands for fair recruitment practices without disrupting public life. The government's willingness to engage with them has helped maintain a constructive atmosphere.

Sonu, a legislator from Giridih, said the administration is committed to systemic reforms that improve the integrity of competitive examinations. He indicated that discussions with student representatives could involve senior ministers and lead to policy changes aimed at preventing future irregularities.

The minister said the government's approach reflects a broader commitment to participatory governance, where young people are treated as stakeholders rather than adversaries.

‘Sir, Please Use Force!’

A light-hearted moment at the protest site drew laughter from students and police alike. A student jokingly urged the lone policeman on duty to use water cannons, pellet guns or conduct a lathi charge. "Sir, we're disappointed if you don't use at least one of them," he quipped, leaving everyone present—including the policeman—in splits.