Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk has entered the 17th [1] day of an indefinite hunger strike to protest an alleged leak of the NEET 2026 exam papers.
The protest highlights growing tensions between civil society and the Indian government over educational integrity and the transparency of national competitive examinations. Wangchuk is demanding a direct dialogue with the center and the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.
Wangchuk, who is 59 [2], is conducting the strike from his home region of Ladakh. Medical reports indicate his health is deteriorating as the fast continues. He has lost an estimated 8.5 kg [1] and is experiencing a loss of muscle mass [2].
Despite his declining physical condition, Wangchuk has refused calls to break the fast. "Don't ask me to end my fast. Ask the govt why they won't even have a dialogue," Wangchuk said [2].
The strike has garnered attention from high-profile figures, including writer Arundhati Roy and actor Naseeruddin Shah, who have urged the Chief Justice of India to intervene and end the fast [2]. Other public figures, such as Zeenat Aman and Abhay Deol, have also called for the government to open a channel of communication with the activist.
Wangchuk said the hunger strike is necessary because the government refuses to engage in dialogue regarding the alleged paper leak and the accountability of the education ministry.
The protest is being observed nationwide, reflecting a broader concern over the fairness of the NEET 2026 process, a critical exam for students seeking medical admission in India.
“"Don't ask me to end my fast. Ask the govt why they won't even have a dialogue."”
This hunger strike represents a convergence of academic grievance and political activism. By linking the NEET 2026 paper leak to a demand for ministerial resignation, Wangchuk is framing the exam irregularity not as a technical failure, but as a systemic governance issue. The involvement of international and cultural figures increases the diplomatic pressure on the Indian government to address the transparency of its educational infrastructure.
