The student-led agitation over alleged irregularities in competitive examinations in Jharkhand intensified on Tuesday as the protest entered its 12th day, with seven students now on indefinite hunger strike and organisers announcing a Vidhan Sabha gherao on August 7.

The movement, centred at Jaipal Singh Munda Stadium in Ranchi, has drawn growing public and political attention, with environmental activist Sonam Wangchuk intervening through a video call to persuade one of the fasting students to resume drinking water after concerns over his deteriorating health.

The protesters are demanding an independent investigation into alleged irregularities in examinations conducted by the Jharkhand Public Service Commission (JPSC), JSSC-CGL, and other recruitment bodies. They have also sought a CBI probe into the alleged paper leak and recruitment scam.

Hunger Strike Continues

Student leader Devendra Nath Mahto, who has been on an indefinite hunger strike since August 2, continues his protest despite worsening health. Medical teams attending the site administered saline after his blood pressure and sugar levels dropped. He has reportedly been suffering from dehydration, weakness and body pain.

Speaking during a video interaction with Sonam Wangchuk, Mahto said students had been protesting since July 25 and alleged that examination papers had been leaking in the state for decades.

Concerned over the health risks, Wangchuk urged the hunger strikers to consume water, warning that continuing a waterless fast could prove life-threatening. Following the appeal, fellow protester Brahmanand Kumar, who had also been observing a waterless fast, agreed to drink water while continuing his indefinite hunger strike.

More Students Join Protest

The protest has continued despite persistent rainfall in Ranchi. Besides Mahto and Brahmanand Kumar, student leaders Sabita Kumari, Archana Kumari, Rahul Kranti, Rupesh Kumar, and Umme Habiba have also joined the hunger strike.

Brahmanand Kumar said he had appeared for several state recruitment examinations, including JSSC CGL, JPSC FRO, ACF, and Field Worker recruitment tests, but alleged that each recruitment process had been marred by irregularities.

Assembly Gherao Announced

The All India Students' Association (AISA) has announced a march to the Jharkhand Assembly on August 7, calling for wider public participation in the movement.

The organisation said students from different districts are being mobilised to participate in the demonstration. JNU Students' Union President Neha Bora is also expected to join the protest.

AISA leaders Vibha Pushpa Deep and Trilokinath urged the state government to initiate dialogue with students and provide concrete assurances regarding their demands.

Separately, the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) has also announced its own protest march from DSPMU Morabadi to Albert Ekka Chowk.

Support From Political Leaders

The agitation has begun receiving support from political leaders across party lines.

MLA Jayram Mahto visited the protest site and said he would continue performing his legislative duties while standing with students outside the Assembly. Former MLA Amba Prasad also expressed solidarity with the movement.

Former Chief Minister Raghuvar Das has written to Chief Minister Hemant Soren, demanding a CBI investigation into the allegations raised by students.

Mathematics educator Abhinay Sharma visited the protest venue and encouraged students to continue their democratic movement for systemic reforms. Hindutva leader Bhairav Singh also extended support to the agitation.

Bollywood actor Sonakshi Sinha voiced concern over the issue through a social media post, describing the difficulties faced by students as "sad."

Government Assures Action

Chief Minister Hemant Soren said the state government is closely monitoring the situation and will take a decision after examining the students' demands.

He said multiple inquiries are currently underway and that any irregularities identified during the investigation would be acted upon in accordance with the law. The Chief Minister expressed hope that the government's response would address students' concerns.

With hunger strikes continuing, wider student mobilisation planned, and political support growing, the protest is expected to remain one of Jharkhand's major political and public issues in the coming days.