Activist Sonam Wangchuk ended a 26-day hunger strike on Friday at Medanta Hospital in Gurugram [1].
The end of the fast marks a critical moment in the protest against the alleged NEET exam paper leak, a scandal that has sparked nationwide demands for accountability within India's education system.
Wangchuk broke his fast in the presence of Union ministers JP Nadda and Jitendra Singh [1]. During the strike, Wangchuk lost 11 kg [3]. Despite the physical toll, he remained resolute about the cause, and said, "I am still alive" [3].
The activist's decision to stop the fast followed a significant wave of political pressure. A total of 65 members of parliament either visited him or signed letters urging him to end the strike [4].
While the fast has concluded, the movement behind it remains active. The protest is centered on the demand for the resignation of Pradhan in response to the paper leak [2].
Abhijeet Dipke, the convener of CJP, said the organization is relieved that Wangchuk has broken his fast [2]. Dipke also said the protest will continue until Pradhan resigns [2].
“"I am still alive."”
The conclusion of Wangchuk's hunger strike prevents a potential health crisis for a high-profile activist, but it does not signal a resolution to the underlying political conflict. By maintaining the demand for Pradhan's resignation, the CJP and its supporters are shifting from a strategy of individual sacrifice to a broader political campaign for administrative accountability regarding the NEET exam leak.
