Devendra Nath Mahto in serious condition after 15-day hunger strike
Devendra Nath Mahto, a student leader in Jharkhand, is in serious condition after not eating for 15 days to protest alleged irregularities in recruitment examinations conducted by the Jharkhand Public Service Commission (JPSC) and Jharkhand Staff Selection Commission (JSSC).
His health has dropped sharply. Doctors say his sodium level is dangerously low and he's showing signs of starvation.
Mahto had refused to take fluids, although he continued to drink water, and doctors had advised Mahto against seeking discharge and urged him to remain at the hospital for necessary treatment.
"I will remain seated here until I am allowed to leave. I will not undergo medical treatment either."
Protesters hospitalized amid Jharkhand protests
Two other protesters are also hospitalized with similar symptoms but are on intravenous fluids.
Thousands of students and aspirants are protesting over alleged irregularities in recruitment examinations conducted by the Jharkhand Public Service Commission (JPSC) and Jharkhand Staff Selection Commission (JSSC).
Authorities say they can't let Mahto leave the hospital because his health is at risk.