Activist Sonam Wangchuk has said he will end his hunger strike only after three conditions are fulfilled, days after police removed him from his protest site and shifted him to Safdarjung Hospital in Delhi. Wangchuk, who has been on a fast for more than 20 days, shared a handwritten letter from the hospital outlining the demands he wants addressed before he agrees to call off his protest. In the letter, Wangchuk described his stay at the hospital as "illegal detention" and stated that he would end his fast only if authorities and political leaders respond to his concerns.
His first condition involves what he described as government accountability for alleged failures in the education system, particularly issues related to examination irregularities and recent concerns over NEET question paper leaks. Wangchuk said his second condition is that political leaders assure him that the issue of alleged paper leaks will be raised in Parliament. According to him, discussions in the legislature are necessary to examine concerns surrounding the examination system and ensure accountability.
His demand comes at a time when issues related to competitive examinations and alleged irregularities have triggered debates among students, education experts and political parties. The activist's third condition relates to his participation in a planned Parliament march. Wangchuk said that if his health condition or other circumstances prevent him from personally taking part in the march, senior political leaders should visit him at Safdarjung Hospital.
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He said these leaders should provide assurances regarding his first two demands and confirm that the issues would be taken forward through appropriate political channels. The development comes after police removed Wangchuk from the protest location on the morning of July 18, which marked the 21st day of his hunger strike. He was subsequently taken to Safdarjung Hospital amid concerns over his health following the prolonged fast.
While officials have not released detailed information about his medical condition, Wangchuk's supporters have continued to highlight his demands and the purpose behind the protest. Wangchuk is widely known for his work in education, innovation and environmental advocacy. Over the years, he has raised issues related to sustainable development, governance and public participation, particularly concerning the Himalayan region. His latest protest has focused on concerns linked to education reforms and accountability, drawing attention from civil society groups and political observers.
As Wangchuk remains under medical observation, attention is now focused on whether discussions between his representatives, political leaders and authorities can lead to a resolution. His decision to continue or end the hunger strike will depend on whether his stated conditions receive the assurances he has sought. The issue is expected to remain a subject of public debate as political parties respond to his demands and the wider concerns surrounding education reforms and examination transparency.
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