Activist Ends Hunger Strike After Government Promises Exam Reforms

PM Modi Advocates for Exam System Accountability

Munish Sood
Mandi

On Thursday, activist Sonam Wangchuk concluded his 26-day hunger strike after receiving assurances from the government regarding significant actions related to the alleged NEET paper leak scandal. These assurances included a parliamentary debate on examination accountability, compensation for families of students who tragically took their own lives, and safeguarding the rights of peaceful demonstrators.

Wangchuk, who had been protesting since June 28 at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar, called for the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan due to the examination controversy. He characterized the end of his fast as a pivotal moment for accountability.

In a video message following the conclusion of his fast, Wangchuk expressed that the breakthrough was achieved after nearly two days of negotiations with government officials. He stated, “Finally, we got it from the government,” emphasizing that these commitments represent a crucial advancement towards enhancing accountability in the examination system.

Wangchuk noted that the government has pledged to address the issue of accountability in Parliament, provide sufficient compensation to the families of students who allegedly died by suicide linked to the NEET paper leak, and ensure that no legal repercussions will be faced by those who participated in peaceful protests at Jantar Mantar or during the Parliament march on July 20.

The formal conclusion of the fast took place at Medanta Hospital in Gurugram, where Wangchuk was transferred after the Delhi High Court approved his move from Safdarjung Hospital due to health concerns. His team shared visuals of Union Ministers J.P. Nadda and Dr. Jitendra Singh offering him juice to break his fast, with Nadda reading the government's written commitments.

Wangchuk expressed his gratitude to supporters of his campaign, particularly acknowledging his wife, Gitanjali Angmo, for her unwavering support throughout the protest.

Shortly after the fast concluded, Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his wishes for Wangchuk's swift recovery and encouraged him to adhere to medical guidance. In a message shared on X, the Prime Minister expressed his hopes for Wangchuk's good health and a return to his normal weight.

Previously, the Prime Minister reaffirmed the government's dedication to addressing examination paper leaks, confirming that those responsible had been apprehended and that expedited legal actions were underway. He emphasized the government's resolve to protect students' interests while ensuring strict measures against those undermining the integrity of public examinations.

Wangchuk’s hunger strike, which garnered significant national attention, has reignited discussions on examination reforms and accountability, with the matter now anticipated to be addressed in Parliament following the government's commitments.