Sonam Wangchuk ends 26-day hunger strike after Centre's assurances, says 'Hunger Tastes Better'
PTC Web Desk: Activist Sonam Wangchuk ended his 26-day hunger strike on Thursday at Medanta Hospital in Gurugram after the Centre assured him that it would positively consider several of the protesters' demands.
Surrounded by Union ministers, doctors, family members and supporters, Wangchuk broke his fast by taking his first sip of soup after nearly four weeks without food.
His first words after ending the fast drew attention. Smiling, he said, "Hunger tastes better." He later added that while the soup tasted good, hunger itself "doesn't taste bad."
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Before Wangchuk ended his fast, Union Minister JP Nadda read out the government's assurances in the presence of Union Minister Jitendra Singh and senior members of the Apex Body of Leh Ladakh.
According to the government's statement, it is positively considering not filing cases against those who peacefully protested at Delhi's Jantar Mantar and those who participated in the march to Parliament on July 20, 2026.
The Centre also reiterated its commitment to discussions on examination reforms and measures to prevent paper leaks. It further said it is considering suitable compensation for the families of students who died by suicide following the recent NEET paper leak controversy.
After hearing the government's assurances, Wangchuk expressed gratitude and announced that he was ending his fast. Holding the hands of JP Nadda and Jitendra Singh, he thanked the government and appealed to students to continue their protests peacefully.
He said expressing concerns through democratic means is completely legitimate, but stressed that violence should have no place in any movement. He also urged protesters not to allow anti-social elements to misuse their campaign.
Wangchuk also shared an emotional moment with his wife, Gitanjali Angmo, acknowledging her constant support throughout the protest. He said she had stood by him during the difficult period and expressed his heartfelt appreciation.
Wangchuk began his indefinite hunger strike on June 28 at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi, demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over the alleged NEET paper leak. As his health deteriorated, doctors shifted him from the protest site to Safdarjung Hospital on July 18.
His wife later approached the Delhi High Court, alleging negligence in his treatment at the government-run hospital. Following court proceedings, Wangchuk was allowed to shift to Medanta Hospital in Gurugram, where he eventually ended his fast.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed Wangchuk's decision to end the hunger strike and urged him to focus on recovery.
In his message, the Prime Minister advised Wangchuk to follow doctors' recommendations, regain his strength and health, and wished him a speedy recovery.
- With inputs from agencies
