Jharkhand Loktantrik Krantikari Morcha leader Devendra Nath Mahto was hospitalised on Monday after his health deteriorated during a protest over alleged irregularities in recruitment examinations.
Mahto had been on a nine-day hunger strike when he joined students marching towards the Jharkhand Assembly. He was taken to Ranchi Sadar Hospital after his blood sugar level reportedly dropped sharply. Doctors said his condition was critical and he was receiving emergency treatment.
The protest turned tense after demonstrators crossed several police barricades while trying to reach the Assembly. Police used water cannons, tear gas and lathis to disperse the crowd. Several protesters and four policemen were injured.
Protesters alleged that police used excessive force, while police said some demonstrators resorted to stone-pelting and injured personnel.
Before being hospitalised, Mahto said the agitation would continue despite the police action. JLKM MLA Jairam Mahto also questioned the use of force against the protesters.
The students are demanding reforms in the Jharkhand Public Service Commission and Jharkhand Staff Selection Commission. They are seeking cancellation of several recruitment examinations and an independent investigation into alleged irregularities.
The government has held talks with the protesters, but the dispute remains unresolved.