Activist who fed Jantar Mantar protesters now serves students in Ranchi

Mohammad Junaid Malik, the man who became a symbol of quiet defiance last year when he was booked by Delhi Police for distributing food to protesters at Jantar Mantar, has resurfaced in Ranchi. This time, he is serving meals to students who have been camping on the streets demanding reforms in the Jharkhand Public Service Commission (JPSC) and Jharkhand Staff Selection Commission (JSSC) examinations.

Malik, a resident of Ranchi, has been spotted at protest sites with volunteers, handing out packaged food and water to young aspirants. His presence has not gone unnoticed. For many, his return to the frontline is a reminder of the thin line between charity and activism in India.

A familiar face, a new cause

In 2025, Malik had arranged langar-style community kitchens for protesters gathered at Jantar Mantar in Delhi. The police action against him — he was booked under provisions related to public nuisance and violating conditions — sparked outrage among civil liberties groups. He was released later, but the case remains pending.

Now, in Ranchi, he is repeating the same act, albeit in a different context. The students here are not protesting a central law but are demanding transparency in state recruitment exams. Their grievances include alleged paper leaks, irregular evaluation, and repeated postponements that have derailed careers.

Malik told reporters that he is not aligned with any political outfit. “I feed people who are hungry. That is my only politics,” he said, adding that his previous experience has not deterred him.

Protests intensify, authorities respond

The Ranchi protests have been building for weeks. Students have clashed with police on multiple occasions, with at least eight detentions reported during a solidarity march to the chief minister’s residence. The Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) has also joined, leading to scuffles.

Meanwhile, the Jharkhand Police’s Criminal Investigation Department (CID) has summoned three serving members of the JPSC in connection with the examination row. This follows a series of allegations that the exam process was compromised.

After two rounds of talks, the state government has opened an official email for student feedback. Officials claim they are listening, but protesters remain sceptical. “An email id does not solve our problems. We want action, not words,” said a student leader, requesting anonymity.

Support pours in from across the country

The Centre for Justice and Policy (CJP) has sent a delegation to Ranchi to express solidarity with the students. In a statement, the group said, “We stand in solidarity with the students who are fighting for a fair examination system.”

Malik’s food stalls have become a gathering point for protesters and sympathisers alike. Local residents have also contributed groceries and cooked meals. The gesture has revived memories of the Jantar Mantar days, but Malik insists he is not looking for attention.

“I am not a leader. I am just a cook,” he said with a smile, as he ladled out rice and dal to a queue of tired young men and women.

What lies ahead

The next round of talks between the state government and the joint action committee of students is expected soon. The CID summon to JPSC members suggests the investigation is widening, but students want a clear timeline for fresh exams.

Malik, meanwhile, says he will continue his service as long as the protests last. Whether his presence will draw fresh police action remains uncertain, but for now, the students of Ranchi have one less worry — their next meal.