Ranchi, August 15: The ongoing protests in Jharkhand regarding irregularities in the Jharkhand Public Service Commission (JPSC) and Jharkhand Staff Selection Commission (JSSC) recruitment exams entered their 22nd day on Saturday. In a recent incident, student leader Devendra Nath Mahato clashed with police at a hospital in Ranchi. Authorities prevented him from leaving the hospital to participate in a flag hoisting event at a stadium on Independence Day. Mahato claimed he sustained injuries to his chest during the altercation.
Heavy police presence was reported outside Mahato’s hospital room as he expressed his desire to join the flag hoisting ceremony at Jaypal Singh Munda Stadium. Mahato sought permission to raise the national flag and participate in the event. When permission was denied, he attempted to leave the hospital, leading to a confrontation with security personnel. Supporters of the protest also arrived at the hospital to take him with them, prompting an increased police deployment.
One student stated, “Devendra Mahato, who has been leading this movement, has been on a hunger strike since the 2nd. He was taken from the assembly campus on the 10th due to alleged medical issues and admitted to the hospital. Today, August 15, is a day of pride and joy. That’s why Mahato sought permission to go to the protest site and raise the flag.”
Mahato accused the authorities of obstructing him and treating him like a criminal. He demanded transparency regarding any orders preventing his participation and questioned the authority behind such actions.
Due to deteriorating health from the hunger strike, Mahato was hospitalized. He expressed, “This is more painful than my physical suffering. Jobs are being sold through leaked exam papers, cheating, and favoritism. The soul of Jharkhand is being sold by commodifying jobs. I urge everyone not to weaken the movement under any circumstances and to uphold the dignity of Jharkhand.”
In a video message, he appealed to the government and administration to protect the soul of Jharkhand, referencing the JMM-led government. He cautioned against blindly following orders, stating, “In democracy, power comes and goes, but do not act like blind followers.”
Additionally, Mahato warned that certain elements are attempting to divert the direction of the student movement, which has been established with great difficulty.
A protester mentioned, “Today marks the 10th day of my hunger strike. Our health is continuously deteriorating. On the sixth day, my condition worsened significantly, and I was immediately admitted to Sadar Hospital, where the medical team examined me. After feeling slightly better, I participated in the ‘Assembly March’ on the 10th, despite not being discharged from the hospital.”
He noted that ongoing discussions are taking place between the protesters and the state government. He also mentioned that students from across the country are joining the protest, which will continue until all their demands are met.
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