On August 15, Ranchi, the capital of Jharkhand, saw a significant turnout of student protesters peacefully marching with the Indian Tricolour as part of their Tiranga Yatra. This event coincided with India’s 80th Independence Day celebrations. The march commenced from Jaipal Singh Munda Stadium, where participants voiced their grievances regarding alleged irregularities in recruitment examinations conducted by the Jharkhand Public Service Commission (JPSC) and the Jharkhand Staff Selection Commission (JSSC).

Among the demonstrators was Rupesh, who, despite being in a wheelchair, expressed his determination to continue the fight for their demands after 13 days of hunger strike. He stated that the solidarity and support from the public invigorated his resolve, saying, “We have raised our voice against the system, and we have complete faith that the government will fulfil our demands on the occasion of August 15.”

Conditions of Hunger Strikers Raise Concerns

Others participating in the hunger strike shared similar sentiments about the government’s apparent inaction. One protester mentioned the irony of celebrating Tiranga Diwas while still engaged in a protest that had lasted 12 days, stating that their demands remained unaddressed. The situation has drawn considerable attention, with many questioning the government’s responsiveness to student concerns.

Devendra Nath Mahto, a leader of the Jharkhand Loktantrik Krantikari Morcha (JLKM), has been on an indefinite hunger strike from August 2, now entering its 14th day. Following a chaotic incident during the Ranchi Vidhan Sabha Gherao march, where police used lathicharges and tear gas, Mahto was admitted to Sadar Hospital for medical care. He expressed disappointment at being unable to participate in the Tiranga Yatra, citing extensive police presence outside his hospital room as a restriction to his freedom.

Two other protesters, Umme Habiba and Rahul Kranti, were also hospitalised due to deteriorating health as a result of their hunger strikes. Habiba expressed her frustration about the situation, stating, “I don’t want to remain. I also wish to participate in the Tiranga Yatra. The administration can try and stop me. But I will go. This is my love for the country.”

Police Presence and Student Leaders’ Statements

Earlier in the day, Mahto informed journalists about the heavy police deployment outside his hospital room following his request to join the flag hoisting march associated with the protest. He questioned the essence of freedom in such circumstances, asking, “What kind of freedom is this, after all? Are we not even free to hoist the Tricolour and participate in the Tricolour March in our own country?”

Ravinder Paswan, a prominent student leader, reiterated the protesters’ commitment to focus solely on the ideals of freedom during the 80th Independence Day, choosing not to escalate their demands at this time. This collective resolution aims to highlight their pursuit of justice while also respecting the day’s significance.

The demonstrations in Ranchi reflect a broader discontent among students in Jharkhand regarding recruitment processes, indicating that these issues intersect with national celebrations. The protest continues to draw attention as participants engage in peaceful demonstrations to underscore their rights and demands.

Long or Short, get news the way you like. No ads. No redirections. Download Newspin and Stay Alert, The CSR Journal Mobile app, for fast, crisp, clean updates!

App Store –  https://apps.apple.com/in/app/newspin/id6746449540 

Google Play Store – https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.inventifweb.newspin&pcampaignid=web_share