Student Protests Erupt in Manipur and Jharkhand Over NRC and Exams

Student organizations in Manipur have called for a two-day state-wide strike demanding the implementation of the National Register of Citizens (NRC) before the commencement of the national Census. The protesters argue that a proper NRC is essential to identify and address the issue of undocumented migration in the border state. This demand has gained momentum following concerns over demographic changes and regional stability. The strike is expected to affect educational institutions and local businesses as student leaders urge the government to prioritize their concerns before proceeding with general data collection.

In Jharkhand, students have intensified their demonstrations against the Jharkhand Public Service Commission (JPSC) and the Jharkhand Staff Selection Commission (JSSC). Protesters have announced a major march to the official residence of Chief Minister Hemant Soren scheduled for August 20, 2026. The students are demanding immediate resolutions to long-standing grievances regarding exam delays, paper leaks, and recruitment anomalies. They have warned that the Chief Minister will face calls for resignation if the government fails to provide transparent answers and a clear timeline for job recruitments.

Both Manipur and Jharkhand are witnessing a surge in youth-led activism that places significant pressure on the respective state administrations. In Manipur, the demand for NRC intersects with complex ethnic and security issues, while in Jharkhand, the focus remains on economic opportunities and administrative accountability. The regional governments are currently monitoring the situations to prevent any escalation of violence during the planned strikes and marches. These developments highlight a growing trend of organized student movements challenging state policies across different parts of India.