Devendra Nath Mahto | The making of an agitator
The student leader has emerged as the most prominent face of the agitation over alleged irregularities in the conduct of exams in Jharkhand
On August 10, Jharkhand students filled the capital, Ranchi, for a march to gherao the State Assembly. Amid the throng, 33-year-old Devendra Nath Mahto stood out, carried by his supporters and adorned with a photograph of former Chief Minister Shibu Soren. The attention was new, but fitting for the young man who has spent a decade organizing student protests.
A JLKM leader, he has emerged as the most prominent face of the agitation over irregularities in the 14th Jharkhand Public Service Commission (JPSC) and Jharkhand Staff Selection Commission (JSSC) examinations. Since August 2, Mahto has been on an indefinite hunger strike, hospitalized twice, and called for the cancellation of various exams and an investigation by the CBI.
His political journey began in college, with protests over student scholarships and recruitment rules, later evolving into a full-fledged political career. Despite personal sacrifices, including the death of his mother and political scrutiny, Mahto remains steadfast in his pursuit of justice for Jharkhand's students.
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