Education activist Sonam Wangchuk has released a video message addressing backlash and political speculation following his decision to call off a 26-day hunger strike. Speaking from his hospital bed at Medanta, Wangchuk pushed back strongly against allegations that he struck a secret “deal” with the Central government.
Key Highlights from Wangchuk’s Address
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Rejection of “Deal” Claims: Wangchuk rubbished claims that breaking his fast in the presence of Union Ministers J.P. Nadda and Jitendra Singh implied a political compromise. “If a deal had to be made, would someone stay hungry for 26 days?” he asked, noting that a month of starvation on Delhi’s streets is hardly how political deals are struck.
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Severe Physical Toll: Having lost 11 kg, Wangchuk described suffering extreme physical exhaustion and risks of irreversible damage to his organs and brain due to the prolonged fast.
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Reason for Ending the Fast: Wangchuk explained he called off the hunger strike after securing written assurances from the Centre. These included commitments that:
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No criminal cases or FIRs would be registered against peaceful student protesters.
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Parliament will discuss accountability in the examination system and paper leak reforms.
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The government will positively consider compensation for families of students affected by exam-related suicides.
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Fears of Violence: He stated that he wanted to prevent an imminent police crackdown or violent escalation against demonstrating youth, drawing parallels to past law-and-order incidents.
CJP Protest Status
While Wangchuk has called off his individual fast, representatives from the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP)—the group leading demonstrations at Jantar Mantar—emphasized that their broader protest will continue.
CJP Position: CJP spokesperson Ashutosh Ranka welcomed the news of Wangchuk’s recovery, stating there is no contradiction between ending the hunger strike and continuing the agitation. Ranka reiterated that the group’s key demand remains the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.
