Activist Sonam Wangchuk on Thursday ended his 26-day hunger strike at a private hospital in Gurugram after what he described as "long negotiations" with the Centre.
Wangchuk broke his fast at Medanta hospital in the presence of Union Health Minister JP Nadda and Union Minister Jitendra Singh. Visuals from the hospital showed the two ministers helping him end the fast, while his wife, Gitanjali Angmo, was also present.
"I am grateful and happy to break my fast. Thank you," Wangchuk said after ending the protest. He also acknowledged the support of his wife, saying she had stood by him throughout the agitation.
The development came hours after the Centre announced a series of measures, including a reshuffle in the Ministry of Education, the appointment of a new Higher Education Secretary and a decision to introduce legislation for fast-track courts to deal with paper leak cases. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also reiterated that those responsible for paper leaks would face strict action.
Wangchuk began his indefinite hunger strike on 28 June, demanding reforms in the education system and greater accountability over examination paper leaks. He had been participating in protests at Jantar Mantar alongside demonstrators seeking the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.
Last week, Wangchuk was shifted from the protest site to Safdarjung Hospital, where he refused to end his fast. His wife subsequently approached the Delhi High Court, alleging inadequate medical care at the government-run hospital. The court later permitted his transfer to Medanta Hospital.
According to his latest medical update, Wangchuk lost around 11 kg during the course of the hunger strike.
The Ladakh-based activist had also urged the government not to initiate legal action against young protesters, making it one of the conditions for ending his fast.
Wangchuk has previously undertaken prolonged hunger strikes on public issues. In 2024, he observed a 21-day fast in Ladakh, surviving only on water and salt while camping outdoors in sub-zero temperatures to press for legal safeguards for the Union Territory. |
