Ranchi, August 5, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Student leader Devendra Nath Mahto, who has been on an indefinite hunger strike over alleged irregularities in recruitment examinations conducted by the Jharkhand Public Service Commission (JPSC) and Jharkhand Staff Selection Commission (JSSC), consumed water on the fourth day of his fast on Wednesday.
However, Mahto clarified that his hunger strike and satyagraha would continue until the students’ demands are addressed.
Mahto said he decided to take water after receiving a video call from climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, who appealed to him to protect his health while continuing the democratic protest.
According to Mahto, Wangchuk expressed solidarity with the students’ movement, appreciated their peaceful approach and provided encouragement during the conversation. The student leader also invited Wangchuk to visit Ranchi and support the protesting students.
The agitation at Jaipal Singh Munda Stadium in Ranchi has entered its 12th day, with students protesting against alleged irregularities in multiple state recruitment examinations.
The protesters are demanding cancellation of the 14th JPSC Combined Civil Services Preliminary Examination, a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into alleged malpractice in JPSC and JSSC-CGL examinations, publication of OMR sheets and answer scripts of main examinations, and reforms in recruitment agencies.
Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren on Tuesday addressed the issue, saying his government was sensitive to the concerns raised by students and committed to ensuring justice.
He said the matter was being examined seriously and that an appropriate decision would be taken within the constitutional framework after receiving reports from investigating agencies. The Chief Minister added that the government was committed to finding a permanent solution.
Meanwhile, a section of protesters has warned that they would gherao the Jharkhand Assembly on August 6 if the government fails to take concrete steps on their demands.
The state Criminal Investigation Department (CID), which is probing the alleged examination irregularities, has carried out searches at multiple locations across Jharkhand. Officials have seized laptops, mobile phones, bank documents, carbon copies of OMR sheets and other materials linked to the investigation. The seized evidence is currently being examined.
The opposition has also stepped up its criticism of the state government. Leader of Opposition Babulal Marandi and other BJP leaders have demanded a CBI probe, action against officials found guilty of wrongdoing and immediate resolution of the students’ grievances.
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