Jharkhand: How the Constable Recruitment Race Turned Deadly - 11 Candidates Lose Their Lives

Tragic events unfolded during the physical test of the Jharkhand constable exam, resulting in the deaths of 11 candidates.
Candidates in the Jharkhand Constable Physical Test

Source: aajtak

The physical test of the Jharkhand constable recruitment exam has left everyone in shock with the death of about 11 candidates. These candidates lost their lives while running in different districts. How did these deaths occur, and what were the possible reasons behind them? These questions are troubling everyone, and experts are weighing in.

Notably, the constable recruitment exam is ongoing in Jharkhand. This exam is being conducted at seven centers in Ranchi, Giridih, Hazaribagh, Palamu, East Singhbhum, and Sahebganj districts. The physical test was the first hurdle that candidates needed to clear. Those who passed the physical test could then proceed to the written exam.

Police reported deaths in Ranchi (1), Hazaribagh and Giridih (4), Palamu (4), Musabani and Sahebganj (2). Police spokesperson A.V. Homkar stated that cases have been registered and investigations are underway. He described the deaths as unfortunate, while doctors suggested that a lack of practice might be responsible.

Doctors Explain the Causes of Death

Doctors believe that sudden physical exertion can reduce oxygen levels, and substances like steroids or energy drinks can be harmful. They have urged candidates to stay patient and understand that this isn't the last exam of their lives. Commandant Mukesh Kumar, supervising the recruitment in Palamu, also advised candidates to avoid shortcuts and refrain from using energy drinks or medicines, factors that are currently under investigation. Some candidates' behavior was also deemed unusual.

However, those who qualified in the recruitment showed joy and pride. They expressed that their families wanted them to secure a government job to serve society while supporting their families. Some had parents who were farmers, while others had no one in their family with a government job. Both male and female candidates emphasized their long-term preparation to maintain timing and stamina, with many qualifying in minutes varying from 28 to 52. Women had to cover 5 kilometers in 40 minutes, while men had to run 10 kilometers in an hour to qualify.

Which Candidates Lost Their Lives?

At the Padma Police Training Center in Hazaribagh, an incident occurred involving Mahesh Kumar from Balsagra village in Mandu Police Station area of Ramgarh district. He fainted during the sixth round of the race and was rushed to Hazaribagh Sadar Hospital, where doctors declared him dead. Mahesh Kumar Mahto's father, Mitra Lal Mahto, accused the administration and doctors of negligence leading to his son's death.

Father Demands Government Job for Elder Son
Hazaribagh:

My younger son Mahesh Kumar Mahto has passed away, and we are performing his last rites today. We have not received his postmortem report yet. Mitra Lal Mahto pleaded with the Jharkhand government for compensation and a government job for his elder son as they belong to a poor family. This tragic event has devastated the entire family, and their tears seem unending.

Giridih:

Suraj Kumar from Manikabad Tola Bako, Dehri block of Giridih district, also participated in the constable race in Hazaribagh's Padma. Although he completed the race, he fainted afterward and was taken to the hospital, where he died during treatment. Suraj was the sole breadwinner of his family, with his father Prabhu Verma being a small farmer. Suraj was a brilliant student, studying in Devghar and had cleared the JPSC PT exam, waiting for the mains result. His death has cast a pall of gloom over the village, with his family requesting government compensation and a job for a family member.

Cabinet Minister Ramdas Soren Comments

Cabinet Minister Ramdas Soren expressed his views on this issue, stating that the recruitment process must be followed. He questioned why recruitment was not carried out during their 15 years in power and noted that despite challenges like running in the rainy season, difficulties still arise.

Following these incidents, Commandant Mukesh Kumar from Palamu mentioned that the races are now being held from 4 AM. A police headquarters video highlighted the facilities provided to candidates.

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