Ranchi, August 15, 2026: On India’s 80th Independence Day, JLKM leader and student activist Devendra Nath Mahto was allegedly stopped by police from joining a Tiranga Yatra at Ranchi’s Jaipal Singh Munda Stadium. Mahto, who is undergoing treatment at Sadar Hospital amid his ongoing hunger strike, questioned the action, asking, “What kind of freedom is this?”
Videos circulating on social media appear to show police personnel restraining him as he attempted to leave the hospital. Mahto alleged that he was manhandled and injured, while authorities have cited his health concerns.
The incident has sparked a fresh debate over civil liberties and the right to participate in national celebrations.
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