After 24-District Tour, Devendra Nath Mahto Hospitalised in Ranchi

Photo: Reporter Post

Jharkhand activist Devendra Nath Mahto, who has been leading a sustained campaign over alleged irregularities in recruitment examinations in the state, has been hospitalised after his health suddenly deteriorated.

Mahto was admitted to Ranchi Sadar Hospital following complaints of high fever, persistent diarrhoea, vomiting and severe body ache. Doctors are keeping him under observation and conducting necessary medical tests. Further treatment is being decided based on the test reports.

After being admitted, Mahto appealed to his supporters, students, job aspirants, parents and well-wishers not to worry about his condition. He also urged people to continue extending their good wishes and blessings for his speedy recovery.

Despite his health problems, Mahto said his campaign for the rights of students and young job aspirants would continue. He reiterated his demand for a transparent and fair recruitment system in Jharkhand and said the issue was directly linked to the future of the state's youth.

He also appealed to his supporters to remain calm and maintain restraint while he undergoes treatment.

Mahto has been protesting for several days over alleged irregularities in examinations conducted by the Jharkhand Public Service Commission (JPSC) and Jharkhand Staff Selection Commission (JSSC). His campaign began with an indefinite hunger strike at the Jaipal Singh Munda Stadium in Ranchi and later escalated into a march towards the state Assembly.

Following the protests in Ranchi, Mahto embarked on a tour of all 24 districts of Jharkhand to raise awareness about recruitment-related issues and mobilise students and job aspirants. The tour concluded on September 11.

His hospitalisation comes soon after the completion of the extensive state-wide campaign. The development has drawn attention to the physical toll of the prolonged protest and travel, while the larger issues raised by Mahto regarding recruitment transparency remain part of the ongoing public debate in Jharkhand.