Student leader Devendra Mahato drank water during an indefinite hunger strike in Ranchi after a video call from activist Sonam Wangchuk.
The intervention highlights a growing network of activists addressing alleged systemic failures in India's competitive examination processes. Mahato is leading the Jharkhand Loktantrik Krantikari Morcha in a protest against alleged irregularities and leaks in the Jharkhand Public Service Commission (JPSC) and JSSC CGL examinations [1, 4].
Wangchuk contacted Mahato via video call to express concern for the student leader's health. During the interaction, Wangchuk urged Mahato to remain hydrated to ensure he could sustain the protest over a longer period [1, 3]. Following this advice, Mahato broke his strict fast by consuming water while maintaining his commitment to the strike [2, 3].
"I drank water only after his request," Mahato said [2].
Mahato said that Wangchuk expressed concern for his health and asked him to drink water [4]. The connection between the two activists is rooted in shared grievances regarding exam integrity. Wangchuk previously conducted a 26-day fast in Delhi to protest the NEET paper leak issue [3].
The protest in Ranchi remains active as students demand transparency, and accountability from the state's examination boards. The hunger strike is intended to pressure authorities to address the alleged leaks and irregularities that have impacted thousands of candidates [1, 4].
“"I drank water only after his request."”
The interaction between Mahato and Wangchuk signals a convergence of regional and national protests against the integrity of India's public service and medical entrance exams. By advocating for 'sustainable' hunger strikes, Wangchuk is applying a strategy to prolong public pressure on government bodies without risking the immediate death of protesters, thereby extending the political visibility of the movement.
