Controversy Surrounds Deaths During Jharkhand Excise Constable Tests

Jharkhand Health Minister Banna Gupta claimed only four deaths occurred during excise constable physical tests, contradicting state police's statement of 11 fatalities. He cited post-Covid cardiac issues as a cause and emphasized exercising within individual capacity. Meanwhile, Jharkhand BJP claimed 13 deaths due to government mismanagement.

Jharkhand Health Minister Banna Gupta asserted on Monday that only four deaths occurred during the ongoing physical tests for excise constables, challenging the state police's claim of 11 casualties.

Gupta questioned the authenticity of the reported figures, stating, 'Where are these figures coming from? These are not authentic. A total of four persons have died,' during an interaction at Ranchi’s Birsa Munda Airport. He attributed the deaths to increased cardiac issues following the Covid pandemic, noting that medical professionals recommend exercise according to individual capacity.

On the contrary, IG (Operations) Amol V Homkar reported four deaths in Palamu, two each in Giridih and Hazaribag, and one each in Ranchi, East Singhbhum's Mosabani, and Sahebganj. Investigations are ongoing.

Meanwhile, senior BJP leader Amar Bauri accused the government of mismanagement, claiming 13 aspirants have died during the physical tests due to negligence in following medical protocols. He criticized the JMM-led government's handling of the situation, calling it a failure and insensitivity towards the aspirants.

(With inputs from agencies.)