Jharkhand student protest: Fasting activist Devendra Mahto drinks water after personal appeal by Sonam Wangchuk | VIDEO

Devendra Nath Mahto, a student leader who has been fasting indefinitely in Ranchi in protest against the alleged irregularities in the competitive examinations conducted in the state, has agreed to drink water after a moving video conversation with celebrated climate activist Sonam Wangchuk.

The leader launched the fast at the Jaipal Singh Munda stadium, Ranchi, to seek investigations into the examinations conducted by the Jharkhand Public Service Commission (JPSC) and the Jharkhand Staff Selection Commission (JSSC). Initially, Mahto has gone without any food or water, but after a video meeting with Wangchuck, he agreed to at least keep hydrated during his peaceful 'satyagraha.'

#WATCH | Ranchi, Jharkhand: Student leader and JLKM leader Devendra Nath Mahato ended his indefinite hunger strike at Jaipal Singh Munda Stadium. https://t.co/PSK27CQw1p pic.twitter.com/4HHyP9Tyob

— ANI (@ANI) August 5, 2026

Sonam Wangchuk's appeal to protect health

Sonam Wangchuck, whose recent hunger strike in connection with examination leaks had brought him into spotlight, called on Mahto to give his appeal and guidance regarding his agitation.

Wangchuk told the young activist that he must avoid severe dehydration, stressing the fact that any successful movement needs endurance and physical strength. In response to Wangchuk's appeal, Mahto drank a glass of water on camera and assured his supporters that he would drink water to sustain his body, but his indefinite hunger strike against irregularities in recruitment exams will continue. 

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"Inspired by the peaceful protests of Sonam Wangchuk, we see that with discipline and a peaceful attitude, we can achieve something. As he told me, I am drinking water to sustain my strength, but my hunger strike against the corruptive process in exams will go on," said Mahto. 

Key demands: Probe by CBI & cancellation of 14th JPSC exam 

Affectionately referred to by his supporters as "Jharkhand's Sonam Wangchuk," Mahto is the main protagonist of the ongoing movement among students in the state. Job aspirants have hit the streets in Ranchi and other parts of the state after the allegations of paper leak and tampered OMR sheets were made in the recent government recruitment exams.

The protesting students are pushing for three core demands:

Central agency probe: Transferring the ongoing inquiry from the local Crime Investigation Department (CID) to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and Enforcement Directorate (ED) to ensure an impartial probe.

Cancellation of controversial exams: Immediate annulment of the 14th JPSC Preliminary Examination until complete transparency in evaluation is established.

State intervention: Direct intervention by Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren to engage with student representatives and implement structural examination reforms.  

State authorities continue to monitor the situation at Jaipal Singh Munda Stadium as support for the student-led agitation grows across educational hubs in Jharkhand.

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