Renowned Innovator Sonam Wangchuk Breaks 26-Day Fast, Declares: "Hunger Doesn't Taste Bad"

Activist Sonam Wangchuk Ends 26-Day Hunger Strike After Centre's Assurance

Sonam Wangchuk, the activist who embarked on a 26-day hunger strike in solidarity with student protests led by the Cockroach Janta Party, has finally broken his fast after reaching a pivotal agreement with Union ministers. Wangchuk expressed that he would have persisted with his hunger strike for a longer duration if not for the written assurances provided by the government.

In a video statement, Wangchuk revealed that Union ministers J P Nadda and Jitendra Singh, representing the Centre, have pledged to address three crucial issues. These include a promise not to file cases against protesting students, a commitment to hold parliamentary discussions to tackle paper leaks, and a guarantee of appropriate compensation for the families of NEET paper leak victims.

Reflecting on his decision to end the hunger strike, Wangchuk remarked that while the taste of food was gratifying after 26 days of fasting, the hunger itself did not diminish. He emphasized that the assurance from the government played a pivotal role in his decision to conclude the strike.

Wangchuk received an outpouring of support as he concluded his fast at the Medanta Hospital in Gurgaon, with the presence of dignitaries like Jitendra Singh and J P Nadda. Notably, leaders from Ladakh's apex body visited him, and over 65 Members of Parliament from various parties extended their support and urged him to end the strike.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a social media post, urged Wangchuk to prioritize his health and regain his strength swiftly. The Opposition's demand for the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over the NEET-UG paper leak issue continues to dominate the political discourse.

The government has reiterated its willingness to engage in discussions with students, offering avenues for dialogue either at Nadda's residence or office. The assurance of compensation for families affected by student suicides following the paper leak underscores the government's commitment to address the grievances raised by Wangchuk and the protesting students.

Amrita Nayak Dutta, a seasoned journalist covering defence and national security for The Indian Express, sheds light on the developments surrounding the hunger strike and its implications for the education system. With extensive experience in reporting on critical issues, Amrita's insights provide a comprehensive understanding of the ongoing discourse.