Sonam Wangchuk – Activist Ends 26-Day Fast After Centre Offers Key Assurances
Sonam Wangchuk – Activist Sonam Wangchuk has ended his 26-day indefinite hunger strike after the Central government assured him that several concerns raised during the protest would receive positive consideration. The decision came following late-night discussions with senior Union ministers at Medanta Hospital in Gurugram, where Wangchuk had been undergoing treatment while continuing his fast.
Government Gives Written Assurances
Wangchuk announced the end of his fast through a post on X, stating that he broke his fast in the presence of Union Ministers JP Nadda and Dr. Jitendra Singh, along with senior representatives of the Apex Body of Leh Ladakh. According to him, the decision followed extensive discussions and assurances from the government regarding multiple issues linked to the ongoing student movement.
Union Health Minister JP Nadda said the government was inclined not to pursue legal action against individuals who had peacefully participated in demonstrations at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi or joined the July 20 march towards Parliament. He also reiterated that Parliament would hold discussions on alleged examination paper leaks and broader education reforms.
Prime Minister Extends Best Wishes
Soon after Wangchuk confirmed that he had ended the fast, Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared a message on X, encouraging the activist to follow medical advice, regain his strength and recover his health. The Prime Minister also expressed his prayers for Wangchuk’s well-being.
Nadda further stated that the government was positively considering appropriate financial assistance for the families of students who died by suicide in connection with the recent alleged NEET paper leak controversy.
Wangchuk Calls for Continued Peace
In his statement, Wangchuk revealed that 65 Members of Parliament from different political parties had either visited him or signed letters requesting that he end the hunger strike. He said the decision was reached only after prolonged negotiations and keeping in mind concerns over the possibility of violence.
He added that he would soon release a detailed video explaining the conditions discussed during the negotiations. Until then, he appealed to supporters across the country to ensure that all demonstrations remain peaceful and free from any form of violence.
Protest Movement Continues at Jantar Mantar
Following Wangchuk’s announcement, the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), which has been leading the protest, welcomed his decision while making it clear that its agitation would continue.
CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke thanked Wangchuk for what he described as an extraordinary personal sacrifice that drew nationwide attention to the concerns of students. However, he maintained that the party’s peaceful protest at Jantar Mantar would continue until Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan steps down.
Apart from seeking the minister’s resignation, the organisation has demanded greater accountability for alleged irregularities in competitive examinations, comprehensive education reforms, compensation of Rs 1 crore for families of students who died by suicide after the alleged NEET paper leak, and withdrawal of all FIRs and legal proceedings against peaceful protesters.
Background of the Hunger Strike
Wangchuk joined the CJP-led protest at Jantar Mantar on June 28 and later began an indefinite hunger strike in support of students seeking transparency in competitive examinations and reforms in the education system.
During the 26-day fast, he reportedly lost around 11 kilograms. Despite concerns over his health, he repeatedly urged supporters to maintain discipline and avoid violence, particularly after police action during the July 20 “Sansad Chalo” march.
On July 18, Delhi Police shifted Wangchuk from the protest site to Safdarjung Hospital, citing medical concerns. His wife, Gitanjali Angmo, challenged the decision before the Delhi High Court, arguing that he was being kept there against his wishes. The court later facilitated his transfer to Medanta Hospital in Gurugram, where he continued the fast until the government’s latest assurances led him to end the protest.