Sonam Wangchuk to End Hunger Strike Today? Activist Sets 3 Conditions for Government

Environmental activist Sonam Wangchuk, who has been on an indefinite hunger strike for more than three weeks, has announced that he is prepared to end his fast on July 20, but only if one of three specific conditions is fulfilled.

In a handwritten note shared on social media, Wangchuk said his decision depends on the government's response to issues related to the education system and assurances from political leaders. His statement comes after he was shifted to Safdarjung Hospital due to health concerns.

Three Conditions to End the Hunger Strike

Wangchuk said he would end his fast if any one of the following conditions is met:

• The government accepts responsibility for recent failures in the education system, including alleged paper leaks and related issues.
• Members of Parliament and leaders of various political parties assure him that these issues will be raised and discussed in Parliament.
• If his health prevents him from participating further, political leaders visit him at the hospital and provide the same assurance in person.

He said that only under these circumstances would he call off his hunger strike.

Fast Will Continue If Conditions Are Not Met

In his statement, Wangchuk made it clear that the fast would continue if none of the conditions were fulfilled.

He wrote that despite concerns about his health, he would continue his protest even after the proposed 'Sansad Chalo' march unless meaningful action or assurance is provided.

Why Is Sonam Wangchuk Protesting?

Wangchuk joined an indefinite hunger strike at Jantar Mantar on June 28, supporting a protest led by Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) founder Abhijeet Dipke.

The protest is focused on alleged irregularities in competitive examinations, including paper leak incidents, and seeks greater accountability in India's education system.

The protesters have also demanded action against those responsible and broader reforms to restore confidence in public examinations.

Shifted to Safdarjung Hospital

After more than 20 days without food, Wangchuk's health reportedly deteriorated, prompting authorities to shift him to Safdarjung Hospital in Delhi.

His supporters claimed that he was forcibly removed from the protest site, while Delhi Police said the decision was taken on medical grounds to ensure his safety.

Education Reform at the Centre of Protest

Throughout his protest, Wangchuk has repeatedly highlighted the need for stronger accountability in the education sector.

He argues that repeated examination irregularities have affected the future of students and that meaningful reforms are necessary to restore public trust in the system.

Political Response Awaited

Attention is now focused on whether the government or political parties respond to Wangchuk's demands.

Any official assurance regarding discussion of the education issues in Parliament could play a key role in determining whether the hunger strike comes to an end.

Supporters Continue to Back the Protest

Even after his hospitalisation, supporters have continued to express solidarity with Wangchuk through social media campaigns and public gatherings.

Many have urged authorities to engage in dialogue while ensuring his health and safety.

What Happens Next?

With July 20 marking the day Wangchuk said he could end his fast, the next few hours are expected to be crucial.

Whether the government responds to his demands or political leaders offer the requested assurances will determine the future course of the protest.

Final Thoughts

Sonam Wangchuk's hunger strike has drawn national attention to concerns surrounding the education system and examination irregularities. While he has expressed his willingness to end the fast, he has made it clear that he is seeking concrete action or political assurances rather than symbolic gestures. The government's response in the coming days is likely to shape the next phase of the protest.