New Delhi, 24 July (H.S.): Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk ended his 26-day hunger strike early Friday after the Central government assured him that it would address key concerns raised during the ongoing student protests. The development came hours after Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that the government would introduce a new law aimed at imposing stricter penalties for examination paper leaks and strengthening the integrity of India's examination system.

Wangchuk broke his fast shortly after midnight at a hospital in Gurugram in the presence of Union Health Minister Jagat Prakash Nadda and Union Minister Jitendra Singh, following extensive discussions between government representatives and leaders from Ladakh. He said his decision was taken after prolonged negotiations and appealed to protesters across the country to maintain peace and avoid any form of violence.

In a statement shared on social media, Wangchuk thanked Members of Parliament from different political parties who had appealed to him to end his fast. He urged citizens to remain vigilant while ensuring that demonstrations remain peaceful, saying violence would only weaken the movement's objectives.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed Wangchuk's decision and wished him a speedy recovery. The Prime Minister said he hoped Wangchuk would regain his health under medical supervision and resume his normal routine soon.

In a separate late-night video message, the Prime Minister announced that the Union Cabinet would discuss a proposed Bill designed to tackle examination paper leaks through stronger legal provisions. The legislation is expected to include stringent punishments for offenders, expedited investigations, and the establishment of fast-track courts to ensure quicker trials in cases involving examination fraud.

According to the Prime Minister, the government plans to introduce the Bill in Parliament during the ongoing Monsoon Session and seek its early passage. He described paper leaks as a serious injustice to millions of students and their families, stressing that safeguarding the credibility of public examinations remains a national priority.

Referring to the alleged NEET-UG paper leak, Modi said law enforcement agencies had arrested several accused persons and initiated legal proceedings. He added that the government acted swiftly to ensure that eligible students did not lose an academic year by organising a large-scale re-examination, allowing more than 22 lakh candidates to appear again.

The proposed legislation is expected to strengthen the legal framework governing examination malpractice by introducing stricter accountability for organised paper leak syndicates and enhancing coordination among investigative agencies. Officials believe the reforms will improve transparency, restore public confidence in competitive examinations, and better protect the interests of students.

The developments come amid nationwide demonstrations over alleged irregularities in recruitment and entrance examinations, with demands for greater accountability, transparent investigations, and comprehensive reforms to India's examination system. The Centre has indicated that dialogue with stakeholders will continue alongside legislative measures aimed at preventing future paper leaks and ensuring fair opportunities for students nationwide.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar