New Delhi, 25 July (H.S.): Social activist Sonam Wangchuk on Friday strongly dismissed allegations that he had reached a political understanding with the Centre to end his 26-day indefinite hunger strike, asserting that his commitment to the cause should not be questioned after nearly a month of fasting over alleged irregularities in competitive examinations, including the NEET-UG paper leak.

In a video message shared on social media, Wangchuk expressed disappointment over claims that his decision to call off the fast amounted to a compromise with the government. He urged people not to draw conclusions without hearing his full explanation.

“After 26 days of hunger, do I still need to prove my sincerity?” Wangchuk said, while appealing to the public to watch his detailed video message before making judgments.

Without naming any individual or organisation, he criticised those suggesting that he had struck a “deal” with the government, saying such accusations overlooked the personal sacrifices made during his protest.

The activist ended his hunger strike late on Thursday after receiving written assurances from the Centre on several issues raised during the agitation. According to Wangchuk, the government agreed to positively consider key demands, including avoiding legal action against peaceful protesters, facilitating a discussion in Parliament on examination reforms, and considering compensation for families of students who allegedly died by suicide following the NEET-UG paper leak controversy.

The assurances were conveyed after discussions between representatives of the protest movement and Union ministers, leading Wangchuk to conclude his fast after 26 days.

Earlier on Friday, Wangchuk's wife, Gitanjali Angmo, appealed for compassion and urged the public not to rush to criticise his decision. In a message posted on social media, she revealed that Wangchuk was admitted to the intensive care unit after losing approximately 11 kilograms during the prolonged fast, including significant muscle mass.

She said the activist had endured severe physical hardship for a cause larger than himself and requested people to refrain from viewing his decision through the prism of political calculations. Angmo also appealed for empathy, saying Wangchuk deserved understanding while recovering from the physical impact of the hunger strike.

Wangchuk is currently undergoing treatment at a hospital in Gurugram, where doctors are monitoring his recovery following the nearly four-week fast.

The hunger strike was launched to demand stronger action against examination malpractices after the NEET-UG paper leak controversy triggered nationwide outrage among students. Protesters have sought comprehensive examination reforms, greater accountability for those responsible for irregularities, and support for families allegedly affected by the controversy.

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar