Wangchuk urges Jharkhand exam protester on hunger strike to drink water; five more join fast
Activist Sonam Wangchuk has intervened in a hunger strike in Jharkhand, successfully persuading protester Devendra Nath Mahto to consume water. The protesters are demanding the cancellation of recent recruitment exams and an independent inquiry into alleged irregularities.
Why it matters
The protest highlights growing youth unrest over government recruitment processes and the influence of high-profile activists in local political movements.
Activist Sonam Wangchuk on Wednesday (August 5, 2026) spoke to Devendra Nath Mahto, who is on a hunger strike against the alleged irregularities in recruitment examinations in Jharkhand, and urged him to at least drink water.
Heeding his request, Mahato had water on the fourth day of his fast. On Tuesday night (August 4, 2026), five people under the JPSC, JSSC Reforms Manch banner began an indefinite hunger strike as the protest intensified ahead of the Monsoon Session of the Assembly.
With this, the number of people on hunger strike at the Jaipal Singh Munda Stadium has risen to six.
Jharkhand Loktantrik Krantikari Morcha member Devendra Nath Mahto has been fasting at the same venue for the past four days.
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