Activist Sonam Wangchuk Continues Indefinite Hunger Strike for Student Rights
Sonam Wangchuk's Ongoing Hunger Strike
On Monday, activist and education reform advocate Sonam Wangchuk announced that he would persist with his indefinite hunger strike, which has now reached its 23rd day. He expressed admiration for the peaceful demeanor of the protesting students. In a handwritten note shared on X, Wangchuk stated that he would continue fasting until student leaders are granted permission to meet with parliament members or are allowed hospital visits.
Wangchuk urged the government and police to resolve the situation by allowing students to present their grievances in front of Parliament, expressing hope that accountability in the education system would be ensured. He emphasized the need for the government to hold the education minister accountable before addressing other issues. Wangchuk conveyed his emotional response to the students' peaceful conduct despite provocations, appealing to both the government and police to permit students to voice their concerns in Parliament either on Monday or the following day.
He expressed confidence that the protesters would maintain their peaceful approach, stating, "I am sure the young demonstrators will show the same patience and tolerance tomorrow as they did today." Wangchuk's hunger strike is a demand for accountability regarding alleged failures in the education system, including incidents of exam paper leaks. His protest has garnered support from students, youth groups, and civil society organizations across the nation. This development follows a meeting between central minister JP Nadda and representatives of the protesters.
Nadda mentioned on 'X' that for the first time, a proposal for dialogue from the protesters was received, and discussions began at 11:50 AM. The meeting was conducted in a cordial atmosphere, with initial verbal exchanges leading to a written memorandum being submitted around 4 PM. He urged all protesters to end their sit-in and assist the administration in restoring normalcy.