New Delhi: Social activist Sonam Wangchuk ended his 26-day hunger strike after the Centre provided written assurances on key demands related to the nationwide student movement over the alleged NEET paper leak and examination reforms.
In his first video message after ending the fast, Wangchuk said the government had assured that no punitive or retaliatory legal action would be taken against students and peaceful protesters, including those who participated in the ‘Chalo Parliament’ march on July 20. He said the Centre had also agreed that issues concerning accountability in the examination system, the alleged NEET-UG paper leak, and broader education reforms would be discussed in Parliament.
Wangchuk further revealed that the government had promised compensation for the families of students who allegedly died by suicide in connection with the examination controversy, calling it an important humanitarian step. He described the development as “the end of hunger and the beginning of accountability,” while stressing that the assurances now need to be translated into concrete action.
The activist said Union Ministers JP Nadda and Jitendra Singh, along with representatives of the Ladakh Apex Body, met him at Medanta Hospital in Gurugram and conveyed the government’s commitments, which ultimately led him to call off his fast.
While Wangchuk has ended his hunger strike, student groups have indicated that their campaign for comprehensive examination reforms and accountability will continue until their broader demands are addressed.
