Devendra Nath Mahto's Hunger Strike Enters 10th Day
Student leader protests alleged corruption, demands action over police lathicharge. Hunger strike continues despite deteriorating health.

Student leader and social reformer Devendra Nath Mahto's indefinite hunger strike has entered its 10th day, as he demands justice over alleged corruption and irregularities in the Jharkhand Public Service Commission (JPSC) and Jharkhand Staff Selection Commission (JSSC) recruitment processes.
Mahto is currently undergoing treatment at Sadar Hospital in Ranchi, but remains determined to continue his hunger strike despite his deteriorating health. In an open letter, he stated that his physical condition may be weakening, but his resolve to fight for justice and continue the struggle has not diminished.
Mahto's campaign against alleged corruption and irregularities in JPSC-JSSC recruitment has been ongoing since July 5, under the banner of a “JPSC-JSSC corruption-free recruitment campaign.” He has thanked students, teachers, parents, intellectuals, media organisations, and supporters for helping make the “Jharkhand Vidhan Sabha Gherao” programme held on Monday, August 10, successful.
However, Mahto alleged that police resorted to lathicharge against participants during the protest, despite the protesters being peaceful and not causing any disruption. He questioned the police action, asking why a lathicharge was necessary if the protesters were peacefully demonstrating. Mahto also questioned the deployment of a large number of police personnel at the site and their alleged use of force against the demonstrators.
Mahto demanded an inquiry into the incident and appropriate action against those responsible for the alleged police action. He stated that the use of force against peaceful protesters was unacceptable and that those responsible should be held accountable. Mahto further alleged that attempts were being made to suppress the voices of students and the public, but asserted that the movement would not be silenced through pressure or force.
The struggle, according to Mahto, will continue through democratic and constitutional means until the demands of the protesters are addressed. He emphasized that the voice of the people cannot be suppressed through force.
The incident has sparked controversy, with some accusing the police of using excessive force against peaceful protesters. The Jharkhand government has been urged to take action against those responsible for the alleged police brutality.
In a related development, Brijesh Pathak accused Rahul Gandhi of 'double standards' over student protests, questioning his silence on the Jharkhand stir. Pathak's comments have added to the ongoing debate over the issue.
As the situation continues to unfold, Mahto's hunger strike has brought attention to the alleged corruption and irregularities in the JPSC-JSSC recruitment processes. The Jharkhand government is under pressure to address the concerns of the protesters and take action against those responsible for the alleged police brutality.
The incident has also raised questions about the use of force against peaceful protesters and the need for the government to ensure that the rights of citizens are protected. The Jharkhand government must take immediate action to address the concerns of the protesters and prevent further escalation of the situation.
In conclusion, Devendra Nath Mahto's hunger strike has entered its 10th day, as he continues to demand justice over alleged corruption and irregularities in the JPSC-JSSC recruitment processes. The incident has sparked controversy and raised questions about the use of force against peaceful protesters. The Jharkhand government must take immediate action to address the concerns of the protesters and prevent further escalation of the situation.
Frequently asked questions
What is Devendra Nath Mahto's hunger strike about?
Devendra Nath Mahto's hunger strike is against alleged corruption and irregularities in the Jharkhand Public Service Commission (JPSC) and Jharkhand Staff Selection Commission (JSSC) recruitment processes.
What happened during the Jharkhand Vidhan Sabha Gherao programme?
Police allegedly resorted to lathicharge against participants during the protest, despite the protesters being peaceful and not causing any disruption.