Sonam Wangchuk Ends 26-Day Hunger Strike
Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk has ended his 26-day hunger strike after receiving assurances from the Centre on key demands connected to the continuing protests over examination paper leaks.
Sonam Wangchuk Ends 26-Day Fast
Wangchuk broke his fast at Medanta Hospital in Gurugram after midnight in the presence of Union Ministers JP Nadda and Jitendra Singh, his wife Gitanjali Angmo and representatives of the Apex Body of Leh.
He began the indefinite fast at Jantar Mantar on June 28 in support of students demanding accountability for alleged examination irregularities and reforms to the public examination system. Wangchuk reportedly lost around 11 kilograms during the protest.
Wangchuk said the decision followed lengthy negotiations and concerns that the agitation could lead to further violence. He urged supporters to ensure that demonstrations remained peaceful.
Centre Gives Assurances on Protests
Nadda said the government was positively considering a request not to register cases against peaceful protesters at Jantar Mantar and participants in the July 20 march towards Parliament.
The Centre also assured Wangchuk that paper leaks and examination reforms would be discussed in Parliament. It is considering suitable compensation for the families of students who died by suicide following the recent NEET controversy.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged Wangchuk to follow medical advice and recover the weight lost during the fast.
CJP Protest to Continue in Delhi
The Cockroach Janta Party welcomed Wangchuk’s decision but said its demonstration at Jantar Mantar would continue until Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan resigns.
CJP representatives are expected to hold further discussions with the government at a neutral venue.
Meanwhile, Modi has announced plans for stronger measures against examination paper leaks. Proposed legislation featuring tougher penalties and faster trials will be discussed by the Union Cabinet before being presented in Parliament.
A fast-track court has also been established at Delhi’s Rouse Avenue Courts Complex to hear cases registered under the Public Examinations Act and related laws.
