Sonam Wangchuk Says He Will End Hunger Strike if Centre Assures No Action Against NEET Protesters
New Delhi: Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk has said he is prepared to end his hunger strike if the Central Government provides a clear assurance that no legal or punitive action will be taken against students and protesters who participated in demonstrations over the alleged NEET paper leak. Wangchuk, who has been on an indefinite fast for nearly a month, made the announcement through a letter addressed to Union Ministers JP Nadda and Jitendra Singh.
The activist stated that once such an assurance is received, he would appeal to students and supporters to suspend their ongoing protest movement, expressing confidence that the government had acknowledged their concerns regarding transparency and accountability in India's examination system.
Sonam Wangchuk Ready to End Hunger Strike
In his letter to the Union ministers, Wangchuk requested the government to ensure that no participant in the protest movement faces legal proceedings, harassment, or retaliatory measures for exercising their democratic right to protest.
According to Wangchuk, the demonstrations have been aimed solely at demanding justice for students affected by the alleged NEET paper leak and ensuring reforms in the country's examination system.
"I respectfully request an unequivocal assurance from the Government that none of the young protesters will face any punitive or retaliatory legal action for participating in this movement," Wangchuk said in the letter.
He added that after receiving the assurance, he would ask students and supporters to peacefully conclude the agitation.
Hunger Strike Enters 25th Day
July 22 marked the 25th day of Wangchuk's hunger strike.
The activist launched the indefinite fast following widespread outrage over the alleged NEET examination irregularities. His protest has drawn support from students, educators, activists, and several opposition leaders demanding greater accountability in national entrance examinations.
Throughout the protest, Wangchuk has maintained that the movement is intended to protect the interests of students rather than serve any political agenda.
Government Ministers Visited Wangchuk
Wangchuk also acknowledged that Union Ministers JP Nadda and Jitendra Singh recently met him while he was undergoing medical treatment.
According to the activist, the ministers assured him that the government would positively consider several demands, including:
- Compensation for families of students who allegedly died by suicide following the examination controversy.
- Parliamentary discussion on examination reforms.
- Accountability regarding the alleged paper leak.
- Consideration of demands related to the Education Ministry.
While appreciating the government's outreach, Wangchuk emphasized that a formal assurance protecting peaceful protesters remains essential before ending his fast.
Appeal for Protection of Student Protesters
The activist stressed that students participated in the demonstrations peacefully and should not face criminal cases or disciplinary action.
He urged the government to strengthen public trust in democratic institutions by allowing peaceful dissent without fear of retaliation.
According to Wangchuk, protecting students from legal consequences would send a positive message regarding democratic values and constitutional rights.
Background: NEET Paper Leak Controversy
The protest movement began after allegations surfaced regarding irregularities in the NEET undergraduate medical entrance examination.
Students across the country demanded:
- A transparent investigation into the alleged paper leak.
- Accountability of officials responsible.
- Stronger examination security.
- Protection of deserving candidates.
- Fair and transparent recruitment and admission processes.
The controversy led to nationwide protests, political debates, and judicial proceedings.
'Sansad Chalo' March
One of the major events during the protest movement was the 'Sansad Chalo' march organized in New Delhi.
Thousands of students and supporters gathered at Jantar Mantar before attempting to march toward Parliament.
The protesters demanded:
- Fair investigation into the alleged paper leak.
- Accountability from authorities.
- Examination reforms.
- Justice for affected students.
Heavy police deployment was witnessed during the demonstration.
Police Action During the Protest
As protesters attempted to move towards Parliament, police intervened citing security concerns.
According to protesters, security personnel used:
- Lathi-charge
- Tear gas
- Barricades
to stop the march.
Several participants alleged excessive use of force during the protest.
Delhi Police, however, maintained that the gathering became unruly and that officers were attacked during the incident.
Police officials claimed available videos show protesters throwing stones and injuring security personnel, making crowd control measures necessary.
Delhi High Court Seeks Response
The Delhi High Court has sought responses from both the Central Government and Delhi Police over allegations of excessive force used during the protest.
The matter came before the court through petitions seeking:
- A Special Investigation Team (SIT) probe.
- Inquiry into alleged police brutality.
- Preservation of CCTV footage.
- Accountability for injuries suffered by protesters.
The High Court has scheduled the next hearing for September 11.
Why the Protest Matters
The protest has become one of the most significant student-led movements related to examination reforms in recent years.
The issues raised extend beyond a single examination and include broader concerns such as:
- Examination integrity.
- Transparency in competitive exams.
- Student mental health.
- Institutional accountability.
- Protection of peaceful democratic protests.
Education experts have noted that restoring confidence in national entrance examinations remains crucial for millions of aspirants.
Demands Raised by Protesters
The movement has broadly called for:
| Demand | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Fair investigation | Determine responsibility for alleged examination irregularities |
| Protection for students | Ensure no legal action against peaceful protesters |
| Compensation | Support families allegedly affected by the controversy |
| Examination reforms | Improve transparency and security |
| Accountability | Strengthen public confidence in recruitment and admission processes |
What Happens Next?
Attention is now focused on the Central Government's response to Wangchuk's latest appeal.
If the government formally assures that no punitive action will be taken against protesters, Wangchuk has indicated he will end his hunger strike and request supporters to suspend the movement.
Meanwhile, legal proceedings regarding police action during the demonstrations will continue before the Delhi High Court.
FAQs
Why is Sonam Wangchuk on a hunger strike?
He launched the hunger strike demanding accountability and reforms following the alleged NEET paper leak controversy and seeking justice for affected students.
What condition has Wangchuk placed before ending his fast?
He has requested a written assurance from the government that no legal or punitive action will be taken against students and protesters involved in the movement.
How long has the hunger strike continued?
As of July 22, 2026, the hunger strike has entered its 25th day.
What is the Delhi High Court hearing about?
The court is hearing petitions alleging excessive police force during protests and has sought responses from the Centre and Delhi Police.
Why is this issue significant?
The controversy has highlighted concerns over examination integrity, student welfare, transparency in competitive exams, and the right to peaceful protest, making it a major national education issue
