Social activist Sonam Wangchuk on Friday ended his 26-day indefinite hunger strike after meeting Union Ministers JP Nadda and Jitendra Singh at Medanta Hospital in Gurugram, where he had been admitted for medical observation following a deterioration in his health.
According to sources, the two Union ministers met Wangchuk after holding discussions with Union Home Minister Amit Shah. Wangchuk formally ended his fast in the presence of Nadda, Singh and his wife, Gitanjali Angmo.
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Television visuals showed the activist taking his first sip from a cup with the assistance of the two ministers as he concluded his fast. Expressing gratitude, Wangchuk said, “I’m grateful and happy to break my fast. Thank you.” Turning to his wife, he added, “Gitanjali has always been by my side and my support. I don’t want to thank you but express my feelings.”
Wangchuk had begun the indefinite hunger strike on June 28, demanding reforms in the examination system and greater accountability over alleged paper leaks. Before being shifted to hospital, he had been protesting at Jantar Mantar alongside members of the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP).
Announcing the decision on X, Wangchuk said he ended his fast after prolonged negotiations and considering the prevailing situation in the country.
He said 65 Members of Parliament from different political parties had either visited him or signed letters requesting him to end the fast. According to Wangchuk, the decision was taken after discussions on several conditions and to prevent possible violence.
He added that he would soon release a separate video explaining the outcome of the negotiations and the conditions discussed with the Centre. Meanwhile, he appealed to supporters to remain vigilant and ensure that protests remain peaceful, saying no form of violence should be allowed.
Wangchuk’s hunger strike had drawn support from several political leaders and civil society groups amid ongoing protests over alleged irregularities in competitive examinations.
