The excise constable recruitment drive in Jharkhand has been marred by tragedy as 11 candidates have died, and over 100 others have fainted during the physical tests.
The test, which requires candidates to run 10 km in intense heat, has been under scrutiny after these incidents. According to Jharkhand police, out of 1,27,772 participating candidates, 78,023—including 21,582 women—successfully qualified.
Reports from The New Indian Express suggest that some candidates might have taken stimulant drugs or energy drinks to boost their performance, potentially causing cardiac issues or suffocation. The extreme heat and extended periods of standing in line also contributed to the medical emergencies.
BJP National Spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla criticized the Jharkhand government for handling the recruitment process, stating that inadequate arrangements, such as water, ambulances, and proper health facilities, exacerbated the situation. Poonawalla argued that the drive, which started on August 22 and will continue until September 3, was initiated in response to the lack of employment opportunities and the upcoming elections, leading to poor planning and execution.
The physical tests are being conducted at seven locations across the state, raising concerns about the overall preparedness and safety measures for such a large-scale recruitment drive.