JLKM Leader Devendra Nath Mahto Hunger Strike Enters 12th Day

JLKM leader Devendra Nath Mahto is currently receiving treatment at Sadar Hospital in Ranchi while continuing an indefinite hunger strike. Mahto has been fasting for 12 days to protest alleged corruption and irregularities within the Jharkhand Public Service Commission and the Jharkhand Staff Selection Commission. He was admitted to the hospital on August 10 after police used lathis and water cannons to disperse thousands of students marching toward the state assembly.

Mahto has requested permission from the Ranchi civil surgeon to return to the Satyagraha protest site at Jaipal Singh Munda Stadium, stating that separation from the protesters causes him more mental agony than his physical injuries. Protesters are demanding a CBI probe into recruitment irregularities and the cancellation of the JSSC-CGL examination.

On August 13, students and Ramavtar Mahto, president of the JPSC-JSSC Abhyarthi Nyay Manch, accused the Ranchi district administration of deliberately withholding Mahto's health status. They claim the government is restricting access to the leader and suppressing updates to weaken the 20-day agitation.