Sonam Wangchuk Urges Jharkhand Student Leader to End Waterless Fast

Brief By Newsbrief / 1:19 PM on 05 Aug 2026

Ladakh-based education reformer Sonam Wangchuk urged Jharkhand student leader Devendra Nath Mahto to consume water while continuing his hunger strike over alleged irregularities in JPSC, JSSC and CGL recruitment examinations. During a video call, Wangchuk praised the students for pursuing a peaceful movement focused on education reforms rather than personal demands. Stressing that a satyagraha should awaken society's conscience rather than endanger lives, he advised Mahto to at least consume water, salt and other essential fluids to remain healthy for a prolonged struggle. Mahto, who said he had stopped consuming both food and water since August 2, agreed to drink water after Wangchuk assured him of continued support for the movement. The student leader said his health had deteriorated significantly during the protest. Wangchuk also appealed to the Jharkhand government to seriously consider the students' demands and ensure a fair resolution to the recruitment controversy.