On the 11th day of hunger strike, students in Ranchi warn of mass protests, says Devendra Mahto

Student leader Devendra Nat Mahto began a hunger strike on August 2nd in protest against irregularities in the JPSC-JSSC CGL examinations. Student demonstrations continue in Janakpur, and Mahto is participating in them while maintaining his fast. Experts have explained what consequences such a prolonged abstinence from food can have.

Jharkhand Students' Protest

In the initial stage of fasting, the body uses stored energy. In the absence of food, the body breaks down glycogen stored in the liver, converting it into glucose for energy. After about 24 hours, glycogen levels significantly decrease, and the body switches to using other energy sources, including fat stored in the body. Fat breakdown leads to the formation of ketones, which the body uses for energy. At this stage, mild symptoms of weakness may begin, and in some cases, dizziness is observed, which is felt around the third day of fasting.

Risks increase between days 4 and 10. Professor Subhash Giri, Director of the Department of Medicine at Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital in Delhi, reported that if a person does not eat until the fourth day, the body begins to use not only fat but also muscles for energy. This can negatively affect muscle strength and the immune system. Additionally, some people may experience low blood pressure, and the balance of electrolytes such as sodium, potassium, and magnesium may be disrupted.

If a person drinks water during a fast, it can provide some relief, but complete refusal of water carries the risk of deterioration. This can lead to decreased urination, a drop in blood sugar levels, disruption of normal heart rhythm, and a decrease in blood pressure. In such a situation, the administration of physiological solution (saline) is extremely important.

Resuming Food Intake is Also Not Easy

Dr. Subhash warns that after several days of not eating, one cannot suddenly start consuming large amounts of food. Resumption of nutrition must occur under medical supervision, preferably in an inpatient setting. This is because after a long fast, there is a danger of developing refeeding syndrome, in which electrolytes can change rapidly when food intake begins, which can seriously affect the heart, respiratory system, and other organs.

Jairam Mahto, MLA from Dumri assembly constituency and leader of Jharkhand Loktantrik Krantikari Morcha (JLKM), has made a significant announcement in support of the ongoing student agitation regarding the JPSC-JSSC appointment dispute. He has announced that he will observe a one-day fast on August 9.

Mahto stated that he will begin the fast at 6 AM on August 9 at the old assembly complex. This step is taken to support the student movement and hunger strike that has been ongoing for the past fifteen days at the Jaipal Singh Munda Stadium, as he shows solidarity with the students' demands.

Jairam Mahto confirmed this decision while speaking to Aaj Tak over the phone. He clarified that on August 9, he will observe a day-long water fast to demonstrate support for the protesting students and draw the government's attention to their demands.

The MLA also indicated that after the one-day fast, when the assembly session concludes on August 12, he will further strengthen the movement in support of the students and remain vocal on the issues.

It is noteworthy that students have been continuously protesting over the JPSC-JSSC appointment dispute and are on hunger strike at the Jaipal Singh Munda Stadium. Negotiations between the protestors and the government regarding the demands are ongoing, but no satisfactory solution has been reached yet.

Mahto's announcement of this water fast is being seen as support for the students, and it is expected that the agitation over the JPSC-JSSC appointment dispute may intensify after the session ends, i.e., after August 12. Currently, all eyes are on Jairam Mahto's proposed fast on August 9.

The condition of Rahul, who is on a hunger strike in Rachi, suddenly deteriorated amid the ongoing student demonstration, which has been going on for two weeks. Rahul is one of the participants in the protest who are continuously observing the fast. After his health worsened, medics took him to the hospital.

Students are holding this protest against alleged violations and leaks of examination materials in the JPSC and JSSC exams. The protesters argue that the issue goes beyond the condition of one person and is a result of long-standing dissatisfaction. They emphasized that their demands must be heard. According to the students, they have already approached Rahul Gandhi, and he supported their demands, but now they are waiting for an opportunity to meet him.

Rahul continues his hunger strike. Students state that he has been fasting and drinking water for four days, which led to the deterioration of his health because his body was in the heat. Rahul had taken several exams and successfully passed the teacher assistant exam, but despite this, he has not received an appointment. Students accuse the government of nepotism and getting positions through 'back channels' while they continue to work on exam preparation.

The story of Savita, 27, participating in the demonstration, illustrates the difficulties of this movement. Savita said that her father fought for her education, but now she does not know where to go. She notes that years pass, she has worked hard, but the system is letting her down.

Student movement leader Devendra Nath Mahto stated that his appearance reflects his health condition. He could speak only a little, thinking and speaking, as the rest of his body did not support him. He called the government's reaction to the students extremely insensitive. He also expressed a desire to create a system where falsifications and material leaks would be impossible.

Local residents are also supporting the students protesting in Rachi. People are helping them both online and with cash, but the students refuse to accept money. Local traders are also ready to provide any possible assistance. Voices of support are coming from all over the country. In bad weather conditions, the SJP party sent raincoats to the students, and its leader is arriving in Rachi today.