On Wednesday, noted activist Sonam Wangchuk spoke to Devendra Nath Mahto, who has been fasting against alleged irregularities in Jharkhand’s recruitment examinations. Wangchuk appealed to Mahto to drink water to maintain his health as the situation has intensified. The protest in Jharkhand now sees six people on a hunger strike at the Jaipal Singh Munda Stadium, marking a significant escalation in their demands.
Mahto, a member of the Jharkhand Loktantrik Krantikari Morcha, started his hunger strike four days ago in protest of the 14th Jharkhand Public Service Commission (JPSC) examination. With the addition of five more protesters from the JPSC, JSSC Reforms Manch who began their fast on Tuesday night, the urgency of their message is clear.
Wangchuk, who recently completed a 26-day fast in Delhi over the NEET paper leak issue, expressed concern over Mahto’s declining health, citing falling blood sugar and blood pressure levels. Following Wangchuk’s advice, Mahto consumed some water, marking a crucial moment in the fast.
The protests began on July 25, demanding the cancellation of the 14th JPSC exam and reforms in the entire commission with a thorough inquiry into alleged exam irregularities. Protesters have called for an investigation by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) or an independent panel composed of retired judges from outside Jharkhand.
Jivan Kumar, spokesperson for the JPSC, JSSC Reforms Manch, stated, “Our five friends, including two women, began their hunger strike from Tuesday night to emphasize our demands.” This collective effort has signified a united front against the perceived injustices surrounding the recruitment process.
Sabita Kumari, another hunger striker, highlighted the desperation of their situation by stating they felt compelled to take such drastic measures due to the unfulfilled promises of the government. Fellow protester Habiba added, “The CM is our guardian. When children are starving, a guardian feels the pain. We hope our grievances will reach him.”
Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren acknowledged the protesters’ concerns, pledging a careful review of their issues. He remarked, “We take their concerns seriously; decisions addressing their demands will be made at the appropriate time, in due course.” Despite assurances from the government, protesters demand immediate action rather than mere assurances.
In light of these events, Leader of the Opposition, Babulal Marandi, echoed the protesters’ calls for action, stating that the government must cancel the 14th JPSC exam and shift the investigation to the CBI. He criticized the current CID probe, suggesting it serves to obscure rather than uncover the truth.
Calls for a more rigorous investigation have also come from Senior Congress leader Ajoy Kumar, who urged for the establishment of a panel led by a sitting high court judge and advocated for the dismissal of JPSC officials involved.
As the protests unfold, the Jharkhand Police’s CID reports the arrest of 14 individuals linked to the recruitment irregularities. Their investigation has led to the postponement of the Combined Civil Services Mains Examination scheduled from July 25 to 27 due to the mounting pressure from demonstrators. The CID has carried out extensive operations, including questioning former JPSC chairman L Khiangte multiple times and executing raids across various districts.
With the number of protesters growing and the public spotlight on the unfolding crisis, the demand for transparent and fair recruitment processes in Jharkhand has never been more pressing. The hunger strikers remain resolute, driven by a commitment to justice and accountability in the state’s recruitment practices.
