Sonam Wangchuk ends 26-day hunger strike after Centre assures Parliament debate on NEET reforms

Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk on Thursday ended his 26-day hunger strike after the Centre gave written assurances that the NEET paper leak issue and broader examination reforms would be discussed in Parliament, while also positively considering compensation for families of students who died by suicide.

Wangchuk, who had been fasting since July 28, announced his decision from Medanta Hospital after meeting Union Ministers JP Nadda and Jitendra Singh, along with leaders of the Ladakh Apex Body.

In a video message, Wangchuk said he insisted on a written commitment before ending his fast.

“For the past two days, we were engaged in tough negotiations because I wanted the assurance in writing. Today, the government has finally given that assurance,” he said.

Centre’s written assurances

In its written statement, the Centre said it was:

• Positively considering compensation for families of students who died by suicide following the recent NEET paper leak.
• Committed to a detailed discussion in Parliament on paper leaks and reforms to India’s examination system.
• Positive about not registering cases against peaceful protesters who participated in demonstrations at Jantar Mantar and the July 20 ‘Chalo Sansad’ march.

MPs backed appeal

Wangchuk said around 65 Members of Parliament from across political parties had appealed to him to end his fast after assuring him that the issue would be raised in Parliament.

Expressing gratitude, he said the government’s response reflected sensitivity towards affected students and the youth who protested peacefully.

Announcing the end of his fast on X, Wangchuk wrote: “END OF HUNGER… BEGINNING OF ACCOUNTABILITY…!”

His hunger strike, demanding accountability for the NEET paper leak and reforms in India’s examination system, had received widespread support from opposition parties, student organisations and civil society groups.