Renowned climate activist and education reform advocate Sonam Wangchuk ended his 26-day hunger strike after the Central Government assured action on key concerns related to examination reforms and student welfare.
Wangchuk, who began his indefinite fast on June 28 at Jantar Mantar in support of students demanding accountability for alleged examination paper leaks, education reforms, and the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, announced that he had concluded the protest following extensive discussions with the government and consultations with leaders of the Apex Body of Leh-Ladakh.
The fast was formally concluded at Medanta Hospital, Gurugram, in the presence of Union Health Minister J.P. Nadda, Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh, and senior leaders of the Apex Body, who offered him water to break his fast. Wangchuk said the decision came after prolonged negotiations and in view of concerns over possible violence across the country. He also revealed that 65 Members of Parliament from different political parties had either met him or signed letters requesting him to end the fast.
In a post on X, Wangchuk said he would soon explain the conditions agreed upon with the government and appealed to citizens to remain peaceful and ensure that no violence takes place anywhere in the country.
Union Minister for Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal welcomed Wangchuk’s decision, stating that it reflected his trust in the Narendra Modi government’s commitment to safeguarding students’ interests and strengthening examination reforms. Goyal reiterated that the Centre remains determined to act firmly against examination paper leaks and introduce measures to enhance the integrity of the examination system.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also welcomed Wangchuk’s decision to end the fast, wishing him a speedy recovery and urging him to follow doctors’ advice to regain his health.
Despite Wangchuk ending his fast, the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) announced that its agitation would continue until Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan resigns.
