Sonam Wangchuk Ends Hunger Strike Amid NEET-UG 2026 Paper Leak Controversy
In a significant turn of events, activist Sonam Wangchuk has concluded his 26-day hunger strike at Medanta Hospital, following assurances from the government regarding the NEET-UG 2026 paper leak controversy. Prime Minister Modi expressed his support, urging Wangchuk to prioritize his health. The government has promised not to take legal action against peaceful protesters and to discuss educational reforms in Parliament. Meanwhile, the Cockroach People's Party continues its protest until the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, highlighting ongoing concerns over accountability and compensation for affected families. Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.
| Jul 24, 2026, 09:00 IST
Sonam Wangchuk Concludes Hunger Strike
In light of the unprecedented atmosphere surrounding the NEET-UG 2026 paper leak controversy, a positive development has emerged. Prominent social activist Sonam Wangchuk ended his indefinite hunger strike after 26 days at Medanta Hospital in Gurugram on Thursday night. He concluded his fast in the presence of central ministers and leaders from the Ladakh Apex Body, following solid assurances from the government. Wangchuk confirmed this on the social media platform 'X', stating that he ended his fast in the presence of Union Health Minister J.P. Nadda, Dr. Jitendra Singh, and senior representatives from Leh-Ladakh.
Prime Minister Modi's Support
Welcoming Wangchuk's decision, Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared an emotional post on 'X'. He urged Wangchuk to follow the doctors' advice regarding his routine and to regain his health and weight as soon as possible. The Prime Minister also prayed for his complete recovery, stating, "I pray to God that Sonam Ji remains healthy."
Government's Promises to Wangchuk
During his hospital stay, Wangchuk received assurances from the government, with Nadda stating, "The government is positive about not filing cases against peaceful protesters at Jantar Mantar and those participating in the march to Parliament on July 20, 2026."
Furthermore, the Union Health Minister mentioned that the government had already committed to discussing the paper leak and educational reforms in Parliament. Nadda added, "Additionally, the government is also positively considering providing adequate compensation to the families of those who committed suicide due to the recent NEET paper leak."
Reasons Behind Wangchuk's Decision
Wangchuk explained that a total of 65 MPs from various political parties had either met him or sent letters urging him to end his fast. "This decision was made after extensive discussions and considering the potential for violence in the country. I will elaborate on these conditions in a separate video soon. In the meantime, I urge everyone to remain vigilant and prevent any form of violence," he stated in his post on X.
CJP's Continued Protest
The Cockroach People's Party (CJP) expressed relief and gratitude on Friday that activist Sonam Wangchuk ended his 26-day hunger strike. However, the party emphasized that its peaceful protest at Jantar Mantar will continue until Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan resigns.
In a post on X, CJP founder Abhijit Dipke thanked Wangchuk for his "extraordinary courage and sacrifice." He stated, "We feel relief and gratitude that Sir has ended his hunger strike after 26 days. Sir, thank you for your extraordinary courage and sacrifice. By risking your life, you have awakened the conscience of the entire nation. Your life is invaluable to this country."
He further added, "The Cockroach People's Party will continue its peaceful protest at Jantar Mantar until Dharmendra Pradhan resigns." In addition to demanding Pradhan's resignation, the organization is calling for accountability regarding alleged irregularities in competitive exams, reforms in the education system, ₹1 crore compensation for families of students who committed suicide following the NEET paper leak, and the withdrawal of all FIRs and legal actions against peaceful protesters involved in the movement.