Sonam Wangchuk ends 26-day hunger strike

Indian activist and engineer Sonam Wangchuk announced that end of hunger strike after lengthy talks with government officials.

He said the decision came after authorities agreed to several conditions and to prevent possible violence.

According to Wangchuk, the government assured him that no legal or retaliatory action would be taken against students and protesters gathered at Jantar Mantar.

This was one of the main reasons Sonam Wangchuk ends hunger strike after nearly four weeks of fasting.

The 59-year-old activist had launched the hunger strike to support the ongoing India student protests, which are being led by the Cockroach Janta Party.

The movement is demanding major education reforms and the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.

Reports said Wangchuk lost around 11 kilograms during his fast. He was taken to hospital after being removed from the protest site in Delhi last week. Later, several government ministers visited him during his treatment.

Although Sonam Wangchuk ends hunger strike, the India student protests are not ending. Cockroach Janta Party founder Abhijeet Dipke welcomed Wangchuk’s decision but confirmed that the demonstrations at Jantar Mantar would continue until the education minister resigns.

Read Also: Sonam Wangchuk sets one condition for government to end hunger strike

The Cockroach Janta Party first gained nationwide attention after the NEET paper leak controversy. Protesters say repeated examination irregularities have badly affected students and damaged confidence in India’s education system.

The NEET paper leak forced authorities to cancel a major medical entrance examination, leading to widespread anger among students.

Since then, India student protests have grown into one of the country’s biggest youth movements, with thousands demanding transparent examinations and accountability.