Devendra Nath Mahto has continued his indefinite hunger strike over alleged irregularities in JPSC and JSSC recruitments despite worsening health. The protest has drawn emotional support from other aspirants and sharpened demands for transparent examinations.
The student-led agitation against alleged corruption in the Jharkhand Public Service Commission (JPSC) and Jharkhand Staff Selection Commission (JSSC) intensified on Tuesday as protest leader Devendra Nath Mahto vowed to continue his indefinite hunger strike despite deteriorating health.
Mahto, who is leading the Abhyarthi Nyay Manch (Candidates’ Justice Forum), is on the sixth day of his fast and has refused to call it off until talks with the government yield a satisfactory outcome for protesting students.
Doctors attending to him have warned that his condition is worsening. According to medical officials, Mahato is suffering from a chest infection, low blood sugar, and low blood pressure, and requires immediate hospitalization. Local administrative officials, including the SDM and the police station in-charge, have repeatedly urged him to seek treatment.
In an interaction with Aaj Tak, he said he would not leave the protest site until meaningful talks with the government are held and students’ concerns are addressed.
“The white sheet I am wrapped in may well become my shroud, but I will not end my fast until the talks are successful,” Mahto said.
He also revealed the personal toll the agitation has taken on him. Mahto said he avoids speaking to his family because he fears becoming emotionally vulnerable and losing focus on the movement.
