Student leader Devendra Nath Mahto, now in his 10th day of an indefinite hunger strike against alleged irregularities in the JPSC and JSSC recruitment examinations, issued a handwritten message from Sadar Hospital, Ranchi on Tuesday, 11 August, declaring his fast-unto-death would continue despite his deteriorating health. The message, circulated among supporters, reaffirmed his commitment to the student-led movement demanding corruption-free recruitment in Jharkhand.

What Mahto Said From the Hospital

In his handwritten statement, Mahto said his body may weaken but his resolve to secure justice and expose alleged malpractice in the state's recruitment process remains unshaken. He described the 'JPSC-JSSC Corruption-Free Recruitment Campaign', launched on 5 July, as a constitutionally grounded democratic movement and appealed to students and youth to continue their struggle peacefully.

Mahto also extended thanks to students, teachers, parents, and media personnel for their role in making the Assembly gherao programme on 10 August a success.

Allegations of Excessive Police Force

Mahto alleged that police personnel resorted to a lathicharge without prior warning during the Assembly gherao on 10 August. According to his account, he was transported in an ambulance to a location where nearly 100 students had gathered peacefully, after which police suddenly began pushing protesters before launching the baton charge. He was subsequently admitted to Sadar Hospital for treatment.

Describing the police action as 'unfortunate and condemnable', Mahto questioned why he and other students were brought to the site if authorities intended to use force. He demanded an impartial probe into the incident and called for accountability for those responsible.

Demands and the Broader Movement

The student leader's core demands centre on a fair investigation into alleged irregularities in JPSC (Jharkhand Public Service Commission) and JSSC (Jharkhand Staff Selection Commission) recruitment examinations — processes that determine government employment for thousands of young aspirants in the state. Critics of the commission have long alleged that examination leaks and procedural lapses have compromised the integrity of these selections, though the government has not formally acknowledged wrongdoing.

Mahto urged the state government to conduct a transparent inquiry into the 10 August police action and take appropriate action against those found responsible. He emphasised that coercive measures and lathicharges cannot silence legitimate student voices.

Health Condition and What Comes Next

Mahto remains under medical observation at Sadar Hospital as of 11 August. Despite the hospitalisation, he has given no indication of calling off the hunger strike. The movement's next steps will likely depend on whether the Jharkhand state government responds to the demands for an independent inquiry into both the recruitment irregularities and the alleged police excess. As the strike enters its second week, pressure on the administration is expected to mount.