Opposition disrupt proceedings in Jharkhand Assembly over JPSC results

Ranchi: Jharkhand Assembly on Tuesday witnessed noisy scenes as the Opposition disrupted House proceedings throughout the day demanding results of the fifth Jharkhand Public Service Commission (JPSC) be "put on hold" following alleged irregularities in the selection process.

As soon as the House convened, Jharkhand Mukti Morcha and members of other Opposition parties trooped into the Well holding placards and raising slogans in support of their demand.

State Parliamentary Affairs minister Saryu Roy said there was a meeting for two days in the Speaker's chamber with MLAs representing all parties where they suggested some points (after the issue was raised).

The government could announce a decision only after pondering over those points, Roy said, adding "the issue is also in the Court."

The agitating members dismissed Roy's reply and ignored Speaker Dinesh Oraon's plea to take their seats and allow the House to function, forcing him to adjourn proceedings twice during the first session.

The scene in the House was no different after the lunch break with unrelenting Opposition members continuing with their placard display and standing or squatting in the Well in support of their demand, forcing the Speaker to adjourn the House till 3 PM.

As the ruckus continued even after the resumption, the Budget allocation for Rural Development department was passed amid din and the Speaker adjourned the House for the day, thereafter.

The matter was raised three days ago with the Leader of Opposition and former chief minister Hemant Soren asking why results of the JPSC examination were announced on a holiday (Sunday last).

Later, Congress MLA Sukhdeo Bhagat told reporters the Opposition was demanding a probe and till then the results must be put on hold.