The veteran climate activist called off his indefinite fast after nearly four weeks of protests that sparked nationwide debate, court intervention, and widespread support from students, public figures, and opposition leaders.
BY PC Bureau
New Delhi: Climate activist and engineer Sonam Wangchuk on Friday ended his 26-day-long indefinite hunger strike after holding discussions with senior Union ministers, bringing to a close one of the country’s most closely watched protest movements in recent weeks.
Wangchuk broke his fast in the presence of Union ministers after the Centre reportedly assured him that key concerns raised by protesting students and civil society groups would receive due consideration. The hunger strike had drawn widespread national attention and triggered political debate, with several public figures, opposition leaders, academics, and student organisations expressing support for his campaign.
The protest, which began at Jantar Mantar before Wangchuk was shifted to hospital following a deterioration in his health, focused on demands for greater accountability over alleged examination paper leaks, protection of students’ interests, and broader institutional reforms. His fast also became a rallying point for demonstrators seeking action over alleged irregularities in competitive examinations.
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In the days leading up to Friday’s development, Union ministers held multiple rounds of discussions with Wangchuk while he remained under medical supervision. Sources indicated that the government conveyed its willingness to examine several of the demands placed before it, paving the way for the veteran activist to end his fast.
The 26-day protest witnessed dramatic developments, including police action against demonstrators, intervention by the Delhi High Court over Wangchuk’s medical treatment, and appeals from several prominent personalities urging both the government and protesters to find a peaceful resolution.
The Centre is expected to issue a detailed statement outlining the assurances given during the talks. Representatives of the protesters are also likely to brief the media on the outcome of the discussions and the future course of their campaign.
Further details are awaited.
This is a breaking news story. It will be updated as more information becomes available.
