The Jharkhand Bar Council has filed a plea in the High Court challenging the state government’s decision to ban internet services during the Jharkhand Staff Selection Commission (JSSC) examinations. The internet ban was in effect from 8 am to 1:30 pm on Saturday and Sunday to curb unfair practices during the combined graduate level examination. Bar Council chairman Rajendra Krishna argued that the decision to shut down internet services for around six hours was unjust.
The court did not pass a stay order as the restrictions for Saturday had already lapsed, and Sunday is a public holiday. A division bench directed the state to file a reply within four weeks on the matter. The decision to impose the internet ban sparked criticism from the principal opposition, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which labeled the move as “impractical” and “laughable.” BJP president Babulal Marandi demanded the withdrawal of the order, arguing that the prohibition was causing discomfort to aspirants from other states and hindering everyday activities.
Congress leader and state rural development minister Irfan Ansari defended the state government’s decision, suggesting that the BJP’s opposition was an attempt to disrupt the examination process.
Internet ban during JSSC exams
Ansari highlighted the necessity of the ban to prevent chaos and ensure the examination’s integrity.
The JSSC exam, which was previously canceled in January due to a paper leak, is being held under stringent measures to ensure fairness. The order specified a ban on mobile internet, mobile data, and mobile Wi-Fi services, while voice calls and broadband based on fixed telephone lines remained operational. The government justified the ban by citing concerns over the misuse of mobile applications for unfair practices during exams.
Around 640,000 candidates are expected to appear for the examination across approximately 823 centers in Jharkhand. The state government reiterated its commitment to eliminating any loopholes that could compromise the examination process and maintaining public safety. The High Court’s decision on the petition is awaited, with the state expected to submit its response within the stipulated timeframe.
