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Indian education reformer and environmental activist Sonam Wangchuk has ended his 26-day hunger strike, which he launched in support of protests against the alleged leak of the NEET medical entrance examination paper.
Wangchuk broke his fast late Friday night while receiving treatment at a hospital, in the presence of Union ministers J.P. Nadda and Jitendra Singh, according to videos released by Indian news agencies.
His wife and senior leaders of Ladakh’s Apex Body were also present.
In a post on social media, Wangchuk said he decided to end the hunger strike after extensive discussions over several conditions and due to concerns about the possibility of violence across the country.
“Earlier, 65 Members of Parliament from different political parties had urged me to end my fast,” he wrote, adding that he would soon release a separate video explaining the conditions behind his decision.
He also appealed to supporters to remain peaceful.
“I request everyone not to allow any form of violence and to remain vigilant,” he said.
Following Wangchuk’s announcement, Abhijit Dipke, founder of the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), thanked the activist in a video message, praising his “extraordinary courage and sacrifice” in drawing national attention to the issue.
Dipke said, however, that the party’s protests at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi would continue until Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan resigns.
Wangchuk began his hunger strike on June 28 at Jantar Mantar, joining demonstrations led by the newly formed CJP, which has been demanding accountability over the alleged examination paper leak.
On July 18, Delhi Police removed him from the protest site and admitted him to Safdarjung Hospital. He was later transferred to a private hospital in Gurugram.
A renowned education reformer and environmental campaigner from Ladakh, Wangchuk is widely known for his work on education and sustainable water management in the Himalayan region.
He was awarded the Ramon Magsaysay Award in 2018 for his contributions to education and environmental conservation.
