Shashi Tharoor Urges Sonam Wangchuk to End Hunger Strike
Congress MP Shashi Tharoor has appealed to climate activist and education reformer Sonam Wangchuk to end his indefinite hunger strike at Jantar Mantar. He also urged the Union government to begin talks with protesters raising concerns over examination irregularities.
Tharoor Appeals to Wangchuk to End Fast
In an open letter, Tharoor said Wangchuk’s protest had already drawn national attention to the concerns of students and urged him not to risk his life by continuing the fast.
He said India would need Wangchuk’s voice in the longer struggle for accountability and reform. Wangchuk began his indefinite hunger strike on June 28 and continued fasting despite growing concerns about his weakening health.
Reports from the protest site said he had suffered significant weight and muscle loss during the prolonged fast.
Parliament Debate Sought on Exam Reforms
Tharoor said the concerns raised by students should now be taken to Parliament, which is scheduled to reconvene on July 20.
He argued that lawmakers would have an opportunity to discuss examination irregularities and demands for reform in the country’s highest democratic forum.
The protest has focused on alleged irregularities connected to national entrance examinations and demands for greater accountability in the education system.
Government Urged to Open Dialogue
Tharoor also appealed to the Centre to initiate discussions with Wangchuk and the protesting students instead of allowing the agitation to continue without engagement.
The Cockroach Janta Party, which has organised the Jantar Mantar protest, unveiled a five-point charter proposing changes to India’s examination system.
Several political leaders and public figures have separately urged Wangchuk to end his hunger strike while calling on the government to address the protesters’ concerns through dialogue.
