Activist Sonam Wangchuk has clarified why he ended his 26-day hunger strike without insisting on the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, saying his priority was to protect protesting students and secure meaningful assurances from the government.
Responding to criticism that he had softened his stand during negotiations with the Centre, Wangchuk said the objective of the talks was to prevent further confrontation and safeguard students participating in the protests over alleged examination paper leaks. He stressed that the demand for the minister’s resignation should not overshadow the broader goal of education reforms and accountability.
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Wangchuk also rejected allegations that he had struck a deal with the government, asking whether he still needed to prove his sincerity after years of public service and activism. He maintained that ending the fast was a strategic decision taken in the larger interest of the movement rather than a compromise on its core demands.
According to Wangchuk, the government provided written assurances, including commitments that peaceful protesters would not face punitive action and that concerns over the examination system would be addressed. These assurances, he said, formed the basis for calling off his indefinite fast.
While Wangchuk has ended his hunger strike, the broader student-led agitation over alleged paper leaks and demands for reforms in the examination system is expected to continue, with protest organisers maintaining pressure on the government over their remaining demands, including the resignation of the Education Minister.
(This story is published from a syndicated feed)
