Activist Sonam Wangchuk has called off his 26-day hunger strike after extensive discussions with the government, citing concerns over potential violence and the need for a peaceful resolution.
Social activist Sonam Wangchuk has officially ended his 26-day indefinite hunger strike, saying the decision was reached after prolonged negotiations and careful consideration of the prevailing situation in the country.
Wangchuk broke his fast shortly after midnight on Thursday at Medanta Hospital in Gurugram, Haryana, where he had been undergoing medical supervision. Union Ministers JP Nadda and Jitendra Singh were present during the moment he ended his fast. His wife, Gitanjali, also accompanied him.
Sonam Wangchuk Shares First Statement After Ending Fast
Soon after concluding his hunger strike, Wangchuk took to X (formerly Twitter) to share his first public message. Along with the post, he uploaded a photograph from his hospital room featuring Union Ministers JP Nadda, Jitendra Singh, and senior leaders from the Apex Body of Leh-Ladakh.
In his post, Wangchuk confirmed that he had ended his fast after 26 days in the presence of government representatives and leaders from Ladakh, marking the conclusion of one of the country’s most closely watched protests.
Hunger Strike Ended After ‘Long Negotiations’
Explaining the reason behind his decision, Wangchuk said discussions with various stakeholders continued for several days before an agreement was reached.
He revealed that 65 Members of Parliament from different political parties either visited him personally or signed letters requesting him to end the fast.
According to Wangchuk, concerns over the possibility of violence also played a significant role in his decision.
He said the conditions discussed during the negotiations would be explained in detail through a separate video message. Until then, he appealed to supporters across the country to maintain peace and ensure that the movement remains non-violent.
PM Narendra Modi Wishes Wangchuk a Speedy Recovery
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also responded after Wangchuk ended his hunger strike.
In a message shared on X, the Prime Minister wished him good health and urged him to strictly follow medical advice so he could regain his strength and recover fully.
Background of the Protest
Sonam Wangchuk began his indefinite hunger strike on June 28 after joining the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP)-led protest at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi over the alleged NEET paper leak.
The protest demanded the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and called for comprehensive reforms in India’s examination and education system.
Widely known as “Sonam Sir,” Wangchuk soon emerged as one of the most prominent faces of the student-led movement.
On July 18, he was removed from the protest site and initially admitted to Safdarjung Hospital before being shifted to Medanta Hospital in Gurugram, where he continued his fast under medical supervision until bringing it to an end this week.
What Happens Next?
While Wangchuk has concluded his hunger strike, he has indicated that further details regarding the negotiations and the conditions that led to his decision will be shared soon. His supporters now await his detailed statement as discussions over the NEET paper leak and education reforms continue.