Prashant Kishor ends hunger strike after 15 Days, vows to fight for systemic reforms in Bihar.
Patna January 16, 2025: Prashant Kishor, founder of Jan Suraj, concluded his hunger strike on Thursday, January 16, after protesting for 15 days to demand the cancellation and re-examination of the 70th Bihar Public Service Commission (BPSC) Preliminary Examination due to alleged irregularities.
The hunger strike began on January 2 at Gandhi Maidan in Patna and ended with a series of symbolic acts at the Jan Suraj ashram on the banks of the Ganga River.
Prashant Kishor hunger strike at Gandhi Maidan:
Prashant Kishor initiated his hunger strike with a five-point demand, including the cancellation of the BPSC preliminary examination and accountability for alleged mismanagement.
Despite being arrested by Patna Police on January 7, Kishor continued his fast after being granted bail.
His health deteriorated during the hunger strike, resulting in hospitalization. After being discharged, Kishor continued his protest, underscoring his commitment to the cause.
On January 16, Kishor arrived at the Jan Suraj Ashram at LCT Ghat on the Ganga River.
He performed a series of rituals including taking a ceremonial dip in the Ganga and breaking his fast by eating a banana. He conducted a Havan and paid homage to Mahatma Gandhi by garlanding his statue.
Kishor declared his resolve to carry forward his movement from the Jan Suraj Ashram, stating: “I am walking on the path shown by Mahatma Gandhi. Now we will move forward from this ashram. I will stay here and fight for the people troubled by the system of Bihar.”
Prashant Kishor’s protest brought attention to the grievances of BPSC aspirants, who demanded action against irregularities in the 70th Preliminary Examination.
Earlier, a delegation of BPSC candidates met with Bihar Governor Arif Mohammad Khan to present their concerns. The Governor had also appealed to Prashant Kishor to end his fast.
Tent City Controversy:
As part of the protest, the Jan Suraj Party began constructing a tent city on private land at LCT Ghat to serve as a base for Kishor’s movement.
Initially, the district administration halted the construction but later granted permission for a temporary camp. The Jan Suraj Party eventually built the tent city, which has now become an operational hub for Kishor and his supporters.
Prashant Kishor’s hunger strike has positioned him as a vocal critic of the system in Bihar and a champion for transparency and fairness in governance.
The symbolic end of the hunger strike, coupled with the ongoing tent city activities, signals the transition of his protest into a sustained campaign for systemic changes in Bihar.
Also Read: Prashant Kishor refuses to end the hunger strike after 5 days despite hospitalization.
EOM.