New Delhi, 24 July (HS): Environmental activist and social worker Sonam Wangchuk ended his 26-day-long hunger strike late Thursday night, stating that the government had provided assurances on key issues related to student protests, accountability in the examination system and compensation for affected families.

In a video message released after ending his fast, Wangchuk said that accountability must be established and shared details of the discussions held with the government. However, he clarified that the assurances did not include any commitment regarding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.

According to Wangchuk, the government and leaders from other political parties assured him that discussions would be held in Parliament to determine accountability for failures in the examination system. He said the government had also assured appropriate compensation for the families of students who allegedly died by suicide in connection with the NEET examination paper leak issue.

Wangchuk further stated that the government had assured him that no cases would be registered against students and young people participating in peaceful protests. He appealed to protesters to continue maintaining peace and avoid any form of violence.

Meanwhile, reports suggest that the government may hold discussions with leaders of the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), who are currently protesting at Jantar Mantar, at the Constitution Club in New Delhi. However, neither the government nor the Bharatiya Janata Party has issued any official statement regarding the proposed meeting.

CJP leader Abhijeet Dipke said that the protest would continue until Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan resigns. He said the organisation would not allow Wangchuk’s sacrifice and efforts to go in vain and would continue raising demands related to accountability and reforms in the education system.

Wangchuk ended his hunger strike in the presence of Union Ministers J.P. Nadda and Dr Jitendra Singh after 26 days of fasting. His decision came following discussions with government representatives and amid concerns over maintaining peace during the ongoing protests.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar