No food until justice: Jharkhand student leader Devendra Nath Mahato launches indefinite fast
New Delhi: Amid the ongoing protests in Jharkhand, student leader Devendra Nath Mahato began an indefinite hunger strike on Sunday at Jaipal Singh Munda Stadium in Ranchi. Speaking to reporters Mahato said he would continue the fast until the demands submitted to Chief Minister Hemant Soren were accepted.
The protesters have demanded greater transparency in JPSC JSSC CGL and other competitive examinations. They also alleged irregularities in the examination process and urged the Hemant Soren government to hold discussions with them and address their concerns. As part of their protest the aspirants also organised a Mashal March.
Meet Devendra Nath Mahto leading the fight for exam reforms
Devendra Nath Mahto is a youth politician and student leader from Jharkhand. He is the Vice President of the Jharkhand Loktantrik Krantikari Morcha led by Jairam Mahto. He is widely known for leading student protests against paper leaks and alleged irregularities in recruitment.
Mahto first gained attention through the Jharkhand State Students Union. He also contested the 2024 Lok Sabha election from Ranchi as an Independent candidate with employment and job opportunities as one of his main campaign issues.
Student leader vows to continue protest until government addresses demands
Speaking to reporters Devendra Nath Mahto said he had started the hunger strike to keep the morale of students strong and continue the movement. He said he would follow all the rules of the hunger strike and continue the protest until the government responds to their demands. He also said they would ensure that those found responsible face strict action.
Mahto also demanded that the Preliminary Test for the 14th Jharkhand Public Service Commission Combined Civil Services Examination should be cancelled. He further called for a review of examinations conducted through TDPL agencies. He said the movement would continue until reforms are introduced in the JPSC and JSSC examination systems.
(Curated by: Amber Rashid Shah)