New Delhi: Educationist and social activist Sonam Wangchuk ended his hunger strike after 26 days. Late at night, Union Ministers JP Nadda and Jitendra Singh visited him at Medanta Hospital and appealed to him to call off the fast, assuring him that all demands would be met. Sonam Wangchuk has now shared significant information in a follow-up video.
Through social media, Sonam Wangchuk stated that he made this decision after receiving assurances from the Central Government. Union Ministers JP Nadda and Jitendra Singh had visited him around 11 PM. Senior leaders from Ladakh’s apex body were also present during the meeting. Before this, approximately 65 Members of Parliament (MPs) from various political parties had met him and signed an appeal urging him to end the fast.
Assurance from Government Ministers
After breaking his fast, Sonam Wangchuk explained that intense negotiations with the government had been ongoing for the past two days. However, he insisted on receiving a written assurance, which is why it took two days to reach a decision.
He had to continue the hunger strike for two additional days, though he stated he was prepared to fast for even longer if necessary. He noted that the government finally provided a written assurance today. This written assurance outlines three major conditions.
The Three Conditions on Which Sonam Wangchuk Ended His Fast
Sonam Wangchuk outlined three key points included in the government’s written assurance. The first is that no cases will be registered against those who held peaceful protests at Jantar Mantar or those who participated in the Parliament march on July 20.
The second condition involves holding discussions in Parliament on curbing paper leaks and reforming the examination system to find a permanent solution. The third condition concerns the government positively considering appropriate compensation for the families of students who recently died by suicide due to the NEET paper leak. After receiving assurances regarding all three demands, Sonam Wangchuk ended his hunger strike by drinking juice offered by J.P. Nadda.
Wangchuk thanked the Apex Body of Ladakh.
The social activist expressed his gratitude to the leaders of Ladakh’s Apex Body who travelled from Ladakh to Delhi. He also acknowledged the Members of Parliament who came to meet him. He remarked that this was the first time in 26 days he had eaten anything and that it tasted wonderful, noting that hunger itself has no taste.
It is worth noting that the CJP has announced nationwide protests for today. The administration is keeping a close watch to ensure that law and order is not disrupted.
