SSC candidates sit on hunger strike over pending recruitments in Bengal

Frustrated by years of delays and alleged irregularities in the recruitment process, a group of 10 SSC-qualified candidates has launched a hunger strike in Kolkata. Saturday marked the second consecutive day of their protest, which has now drawn attention from civil society and human rights activists.

These candidates, who had applied for teaching and clerical posts in various state departments, claim they passed all required examinations but were still denied appointment letters. Sitting along the roadside, they allege that corruption and favoritism are rampant in the recruitment process, sidelining deserving applicants.

Despite deteriorating health conditions, the protestors have vowed to continue their hunger strike until the government provides a written assurance of their appointment. “We want a clear job guarantee. We have earned it,” said one protestor. Activists supporting them are questioning why no state official has come forward to engage with the candidates.

With no government representative visiting the site yet, public outrage is brewing. The larger question echoing through the protest is stark: if not the qualified, then who is being appointed?