Sonam Wangchuk Ends Hunger Strike; Government Assurances Needed

Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, who began an indefinite hunger strike on June 28, has announced that he is willing to end the fast if the central government guarantees that no punitive or retaliatory action will be taken against protesters involved in the movement. The 26‑day fast, which has drawn attention from students and activists across India, is part of a broader protest against the education minister and the government’s handling of student dissent.

In a video posted at about 8 p.m. on Wednesday, Wangchuk said he would break his fast “today itself” if the government agreed to his demands. He had earlier written a letter to Union Ministers JP Nadda and Jitendra Singh, urging them to provide assurances that would lead students and protesters to halt their agitation. Wangchuk also referenced the “Chalo Sansad” march on July 20, noting that the protest remained peaceful despite what he described as disproportionate police force.

The activist’s health has been a concern since he was taken from Jantar Mantar and admitted to a government hospital. After a Delhi High Court order, he was transferred to Medanta Hospital in Gurugram. Wangchuk and his family allege that he was “illegally detained” at Safdarjung Hospital in New Delhi, adding to the urgency of the government’s response.

Notable public figures have weighed in on the situation. Actress Bhumi Pednekar posted a heartfelt message on Instagram, urging Wangchuk to end his fast and placing trust in the process. She praised his contribution to the country and highlighted the need for dialogue between the government and students, hoping that violence would cease and that the movement would lead to meaningful reform. Pednekar also referenced the Prime Minister’s action to set up fast‑track courts, suggesting that his voice has begun to trigger tangible change.

Wangchuk’s demand for assurances against legal cases, harassment, or vindictive action underscores the broader tension between the government and student activists. The outcome of this appeal will likely influence the trajectory of the ongoing protests and the government's approach to dissent in the coming weeks.