Activist Sonam Wangchuk has supported Jharkhand students protesting alleged irregularities in JPSC, JSSC CGL and other recruitment examinations. Student leader Devendra Nath Mahato accepted water and salt following Wangchuk’s appeal but said he would continue fasting until the state responds.

JPSC row

The student-led agitation in Ranchi has focused on alleged irregularities in examinations conducted by the Jharkhand Public Service Commission. Protesters have sought cancellation of the disputed JPSC examination, an impartial investigation and greater transparency in evaluation and recruitment.

Students began their Satyagraha on July 25, according to Mahato. Reports from the protest site said the movement had continued for nearly two weeks by August 5, with demonstrators demanding a Central Bureau of Investigation probe and reforms to restore trust in the recruitment process.

JSSC row

The protesters have also raised concerns about the Jharkhand Staff Selection Commission’s Combined Graduate Level examination and other competitive tests. Their allegations include recurring paper leaks, questionable evaluation practices, delayed recruitment and a lack of accountability.

These remain allegations made by protesters and should not be presented as established findings unless confirmed by an official inquiry. Students say the dispute is not limited to one examination but reflects wider problems affecting government-job aspirants across Jharkhand.

Mahto fast

Mahato began his indefinite hunger strike on August 2 at the protest site in Ranchi. During his conversation with Wangchuk on Wednesday, August 5, he reportedly said he had stopped consuming both food and water and had become extremely weak.

Wangchuk urged him to drink water, warning that a waterless fast placed his life at serious risk and that the movement could require more time. Mahato later agreed to consume water and salt but refused food, saying his hunger strike would continue until the Jharkhand government addressed the students’ demands.

Mahato said he accepted Wangchuk’s appeal after receiving an assurance that the activist would remain in contact with the protesters and continue supporting their campaign. He added that the conversation had raised morale among students participating in the agitation.

Youth stir

The protest has expanded beyond an individual fast, with aspirants and student organisations demanding fair examinations, timely appointments and action against anyone responsible for wrongdoing. Demonstrators have also proposed further marches and an Assembly protest as part of their campaign.

Wangchuk’s intervention has brought wider attention to the movement, but it does not resolve the underlying dispute. The credibility of the campaign will depend on clearly documented evidence, realistic demands and continued non-violent engagement with the authorities.

Govt stand

Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren has said the government is committed to delivering justice to aspirants and that action will follow an investigation. Protesters, however, continue to seek a defined timeline, an independent probe and specific measures to prevent future examination failures.

The government must now move beyond general assurances. A publicly explained investigation, transparent release of relevant examination records and a time-bound response would help determine whether the allegations are supported and rebuild confidence among candidates.