Jharkhand student leader Devendra Nath Mahto has alleged police high-handedness and manhandling after he was stopped from joining a Tiranga Yatra in Ranchi on Independence Day.
Mahto, a prominent face of the ongoing student agitation over alleged irregularities in Jharkhand’s recruitment examinations, was undergoing treatment at Ranchi’s Sadar Hospital when the incident took place on August 15. He alleged that police personnel prevented him from leaving the hospital to participate in a flag-hoisting programme and the Tiranga Yatra organised by protesting students.
According to Mahto, he was pushed and forcibly stopped by police despite being under medical treatment. He also alleged that some of his associates were beaten during the confrontation. Videos from the hospital showed police personnel attempting to prevent him from leaving his room, with Mahto eventually sitting on the floor outside the room.
Mahto questioned the circumstances in which he was prevented from participating in an Independence Day programme. The incident has drawn attention amid the wider student movement, which has continued for more than three weeks.
The protest began over allegations of irregularities in recruitment examinations conducted by the Jharkhand Public Service Commission (JPSC) and Jharkhand Staff Selection Commission (JSSC). Students and job aspirants have been demanding greater transparency, reforms in the recruitment system and action over alleged examination-related wrongdoing.
Mahto has also been on an indefinite hunger strike since August 2. His prolonged fast has affected his health, and doctors have reportedly raised concerns over electrolyte imbalance and the risk of further complications. He was shifted to Sadar Hospital for treatment but continued to remain involved in the agitation.
The student agitation has already witnessed clashes between protesters and police. On August 10, security forces used tear gas, water cannons and batons when demonstrators attempted to march towards the Jharkhand Assembly. Police said force was used after the situation escalated.
The Independence Day incident has added another flashpoint to the ongoing dispute. Student protesters have announced plans to intensify their agitation if their demands are not addressed. They have also threatened to surround Chief Minister Hemant Soren’s residence on August 20.
As the confrontation continues, Mahto’s allegations of police action during a national celebration have sparked fresh debate over the handling of the student movement and the space available for peaceful protest in Jharkhand.
