Ranchi, Jharkhand: Jharkhand student leader Devendra Nath Mahto, who has been on an indefinite hunger strike over alleged irregularities in JPSC, JSSC CGL, and other state-level competitive examinations, consumed water on Wednesday following an appeal from activist Sonam Wangchuk. However, he said his protest would continue until the government addresses the students' demands.

According to Mahto, Wangchuk spoke to him through a 10-minute video call, during which he expressed solidarity with the protesting students and voiced concern over the student leader's deteriorating health. Wangchuk urged Mahto to at least drink water while continuing his peaceful agitation.

Following the conversation, Mahto said he agreed to consume water after Wangchuk's request.

"I was not keeping well, but on Sonam Wangchuk ji's request, I took water. I have pledged that the kind of support you extended to us at Jantar Mantar during the nationwide students' protest, we need the same support and presence here as well," Mahto said.

He clarified that drinking water did not end his indefinite hunger strike and that he would continue his protest until the government responds to the students' demands.

"I will not consume food until the government fulfills our demands. I have only taken water," he added.

The ongoing protest in Ranchi is centred on allegations of irregularities in recruitment examinations conducted by the Jharkhand Public Service Commission (JPSC) and the Jharkhand Staff Selection Commission (JSSC). The protesters are demanding greater transparency, fresh examinations where necessary, the release of OMR sheets and scorecards, and an independent investigation into the alleged irregularities.

The agitation has continued for several days, with students maintaining that they will not withdraw their protest until concrete action is taken by the state government.