Thiruvananthapuram: The 63-day-long protest by Civil Police Officer rank holders concluded sadly after the rank list published by the Kerala Public Service Commission expired on Friday.

Despite their persistent efforts to make their voices heard, the state government allegedly never initiated a discussion with the aspirants. All candidates, who were striking with hopes of victory, have returned disheartened. They also accused the government and left-wing organizations of taking a negative stance towards the strike.

However, some protestors believe the government could still make further appointments to civil police vacancies from the rank list with court intervention. Citing an interim court order, these candidates claimed the list's validity remains, allowing for additional appointments. They also hope the government will show sympathy towards their case.

"We are urging the government to take appropriate steps to secure appointments for the remaining students. Our main demand is for the government to extend the rank list for at least six months," said Harikrishnan, one of the rank holders.

In April last year, the PSC published a rank list of 13,975 individuals for the post of Civil Police Officers, with only 3100 being appointed.

Allegations suggest appointments are not being made due to a financial crisis. The government claims there are insufficient vacancies to accommodate everyone. Many in the rank list have already exceeded the age limit for eligibility, leaving them with few options.

Protestors raise a simple question: why was an exam conducted and a rank list issued for a category with no vacancies?