Ladakhi Activist Sonam Wangchuk Hospitalized After 26-Day Hunger Strike

Sonam Wangchuk, a well-known activist from Ladakh, has been hospitalized in the ICU after a 26-day hunger strike aimed at reforming the NEET testing system. Following a written assurance from the government, he ended his fast, but his health deteriorated significantly. His wife, Geetanjali J. Angmo, has called for public empathy, emphasizing the sacrifices made during the protest. Wangchuk has also responded to critics questioning his decision to end the fast, asserting the importance of understanding the context of his actions. This situation highlights the ongoing struggle for educational reforms in India.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 25, 2026, 08:35 IST

Health Deterioration Leads to Hospitalization

Sonam Wangchuk, a prominent activist from Ladakh, has been admitted to the ICU following a decline in his health after a 26-day hunger strike aimed at addressing the NEET paper leak issue and advocating for reforms in the country's competitive testing system. After receiving a written assurance from the central government, Wangchuk decided to end his prolonged fast on Friday.

Wangchuk criticized his detractors, urging them to pause before forming political opinions.

Wangchuk's Wife Appeals for Sympathy

In a heartfelt appeal on social media, Wangchuk's wife, Geetanjali J. Angmo, urged the public to show empathy, highlighting that he lost 11 kilograms during the fast and is now in the ICU. She stated, "Before criticizing Sonam Wangchuk, take a moment to understand the spirit of fasting for a greater cause for 26 days. He is in the ICU now, having lost significant weight, including muscle mass, as he chose sacrifice over comfort. We should at least show some compassion before placing our expectations and political burdens on him. Not everyone can live a life of selfless service; it requires moral stature. Please, show some heart."

Wangchuk Responds to Critics

Wangchuk also addressed critics questioning his decision to end the hunger strike, which was in support of students protesting the alleged NEET paper leak. In a video message shared on social media, he questioned why he should need a character certificate for his commitment to the cause.

"After fasting for 26 days, losing 11 kilograms (including muscle mass), and enduring the harsh conditions of Ladakh to face the heat of Delhi, do I need to justify the sanctity of my fast or whether I made a deal? It’s shameful for a country to produce such thoughts," he expressed.

Clarification on Demands

Wangchuk explained that he did not demand the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan during discussions because his priority was to prevent any legal action against the protesters. He expressed confidence that Pradhan would eventually resign.

He mentioned, "Last night around midnight, I was informed that the minister agreed to provide written assurance. I was in a hurry because the situation in Delhi was tense; I feared a major crackdown could occur. I recalled the events of September 24, 2025, when police brutally shot at the youth of Ladakh. I thought that if I ended my fast and called for peace, perhaps the situation could calm down."

Response to Criticism of His Decision

In response to criticism regarding his decision to end the hunger strike in the presence of central ministers, Wangchuk stated that those questioning his choice were unaware of the circumstances he faced after being removed from the protest site.

"If I had to make a deal, would I have fasted for 26 days? Couldn’t I have sat in an air-conditioned room instead of fasting in the heat of Delhi?" he questioned.

Wangchuk alleged that after being taken to Safdarjung Hospital on July 18, he was treated like a prisoner, claiming he was not allowed to move freely, meet people, or keep a mobile phone or laptop. "It felt like being in North Korea," he remarked, adding that even after receiving permission from the Delhi High Court to go to Medanta Hospital, he was delayed for hours before being allowed to leave Safdarjung Hospital.