Sonam Wangchuk Ends 26-Day Hunger Strike After Government Assurances on Education Reforms

Published: July 24, 2026

Social activist Sonam Wangchuk has officially ended his 26-day hunger strike after receiving assurances from the Central Government regarding measures to strengthen the integrity of India’s examination system. The decision came following a series of discussions involving senior Union ministers and medical experts, marking the conclusion of one of the country’s most closely watched peaceful protests focused on students’ rights and educational reforms.

Medical Care Under Close Supervision

As Wangchuk’s health weakened during the prolonged fast, he was admitted to Safdarjung Hospital in New Delhi for emergency medical attention. His transfer later became the subject of legal proceedings after a petition was filed before the Delhi High Court.

The court reaffirmed that every individual has the constitutional right to make decisions regarding their own medical treatment under Articles 19 and 21. Following the ruling, Wangchuk was shifted under police security to Medanta Hospital in Gurugram, where a multidisciplinary team of specialists continuously monitored his health. Doctors kept close watch on his vital signs while ensuring he received appropriate medical support throughout the final phase of the protest.

Senior Ministers Meet Wangchuk

Union Health Minister J.P. Nadda and Minister of State Dr. Jitendra Singh personally visited Wangchuk at the hospital. During the meeting, they conveyed the government’s willingness to address concerns surrounding examination irregularities and appealed for an end to the hunger strike.

Sources familiar with the discussions indicated that Wangchuk remained focused on safeguarding the interests of students rather than seeking any personal or political gain. He reportedly stressed that the movement had always been about ensuring fairness, transparency, and equal opportunity for millions of young people preparing for competitive examinations.

Government Announces Reform Measures

Following the discussions, Prime Minister Narendra Modi reiterated the government’s commitment to protecting students from examination malpractice. Among the key measures announced was the creation of fast-track courts dedicated to handling cases related to examination paper leaks.

The Centre also indicated that additional administrative reforms within the Ministry of Education would be implemented to strengthen institutional accountability and improve the security of national examinations. Officials said the reforms aim to restore public confidence in recruitment and entrance examination systems.

Appeal for Peaceful Public Participation

After ending his fast, Wangchuk urged supporters across the country to remain peaceful and avoid any form of violence while continuing to advocate for educational reforms. He thanked citizens for their support and appealed for constructive dialogue as the government moves forward with implementing the announced measures.

Several youth groups that had supported the campaign welcomed Wangchuk’s recovery but stated that peaceful demonstrations demanding accountability would continue. Organisers emphasised that all future protests would remain within democratic and non-violent principles.

A Movement Focused on Students

Throughout the 26-day hunger strike, Wangchuk consistently maintained that the campaign represented the concerns of students affected by examination controversies across India. His supporters argued that the movement highlighted the need for stronger safeguards against paper leaks and greater transparency in recruitment and admission processes.

With the fast now concluded, attention is expected to shift toward the implementation of the government’s promised reforms and whether the announced measures lead to lasting improvements in India’s examination system.