New Delhi, Jul 23 (UNI) Activist Sonam Wangchuk ended his 26-day hunger strike at Medanta Hospital in Gurugram past midnight after Prime Minister Narendra Modi issued a statement addressing key concerns raised by the protest movement.
The decision came following a meeting with union Health Minister J.P. Nadda and Minister of State in the Prime Minister’s Office Dr. Jitendra Singh, who visited Wangchuk in the hospital.
In a late night video statement, Prime Minister Modi assured that those responsible for the examination irregularities would face strict and exemplary punishment through the setting up of fast track courts. The matter will be decided in the Cabinet meeting on Friday, he said.
The Prime Minister also stated that the government remained committed to ensuring fairness, transparency and accountability in the examination system while protecting the interests of students.
Wangchuk, who had earlier said he would end his fast if his key concerns were addressed, expressed gratitude before breaking his fast. “With that being fulfilled, I’m grateful and I will be happy to break my fast,” Wangchuk said, as J.P. Nadda and Dr. Jitendra Singh shook hands with him in the hospital.
Wangchuk formally ended his hunger strike by accepting refreshments as JP Nadda handed him a cup in the hospital. He was also felicitated by members of the Ladakh apex body in the hospital, who placed scarves around his shoulder.
The 26-day fast had drawn nationwide attention, with Wangchuk demanding accountability over alleged examination irregularities and seeking assurances that no punitive action would be taken against young protesters who participated in the movement.
Earlier this week, he had conveyed his willingness to end the fast if the government provided such assurances.
With Wangchuk calling off his hunger strike, attention is now expected to shift to the government’s next steps on the commitments made during the discussions.
