Indian activist Sonam Wangchuk ended a 26-day hunger strike in New Delhi on July 23, 2026 [1].
The protest highlights growing public anger over systemic failures in India's examination process and the mobilization of the nationwide ‘Cockroach’ movement.
Wangchuk, 59 [1], began the fast to demand the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan [1]. The activist said a series of examination paper leaks was the primary driver for the protest [1], [2]. These leaks have sparked widespread frustration among students and educators across the country.
While some reports indicated Wangchuk was forcibly moved to a hospital during the strike, other sources state he ended the fast voluntarily [3], [1]. The activist said the conclusion of his protest followed a period of discussion with officials.
"I have ended my fast after a long negotiation on various conditions and in view of possible violence in the country," Wangchuk said [1].
The hunger strike served as a catalyst for the ‘Cockroach’ movement, which seeks to galvanize public support against administrative corruption in the education sector [2], [4]. The movement aims to pressure the government into implementing stricter safeguards for national exams.
Wangchuk said the duration of the strike — 26 days [1] — was necessary to bring attention to the crisis. The end of the fast is expected to clear the way for further discussions between government representatives and the Chief Justice of India [5].
“"I have ended my fast after a long negotiation on various conditions and in view of possible violence in the country."”
The conclusion of Wangchuk's strike marks a shift from direct physical protest to a legal and diplomatic phase. By involving the Chief Justice of India, the movement transitions its focus toward institutional accountability for exam leaks, testing whether the government will implement systemic reforms or maintain the current leadership in the education ministry.
