Sonam Wangchuk Sets New Conditions to End Hunger Strike; CJP Reiterates Four Key Demands
New Delhi: Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk has expressed his willingness to end his indefinite hunger strike over the alleged NEET paper leak controversy, provided the Central Government offers a firm assurance that no punitive or retaliatory action will be taken against students and protesters participating in the ongoing movement. However, the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP), which is leading the nationwide agitation, has clarified that the protests will continue until all of its major demands are accepted by the government.
The latest developments came on July 22, a day after Union Ministers JP Nadda and Jitendra Singh met Wangchuk at the hospital, urging him to call off his fast. While the activist appreciated the government's outreach, he stated that one crucial assurance remains necessary before he can conclude his protest.
Sonam Wangchuk Ready to End Fast on One Condition
In a letter addressed to Union Ministers JP Nadda and Jitendra Singh, Wangchuk thanked them for visiting him and discussing the concerns raised by students protesting against the alleged irregularities in the NEET examination.
According to Wangchuk, the ministers assured him that the government would positively consider two major issues:
- Adequate compensation for families of students who allegedly died by suicide following the examination controversy.
- A meaningful discussion in Parliament to ensure accountability, including consideration of the resignation of the Union Education Minister.
Despite these assurances, Wangchuk said he requires one additional commitment before ending his indefinite hunger strike.
"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 wrote.
He added that if such an assurance is provided, he would immediately appeal to students and supporters to suspend the protest movement and conclude his fast.
Hunger Strike Enters 25th Day
July 22 marked the 25th day of Wangchuk's hunger strike, which began in response to the nationwide outrage over the alleged NEET paper leak.
The activist has consistently maintained that the movement is intended to protect students' interests and strengthen transparency in India's examination system rather than pursue political objectives.
He reiterated that his primary concern remains safeguarding the future of students who peacefully participated in the demonstrations.
'Students Should Not Be Punished'
Wangchuk emphasized that the protesters' only "offence" was raising their voices for a transparent and accountable education system.
According to him, students exercised their democratic rights peacefully and should not face criminal cases, legal proceedings, or administrative harassment after participating in the movement.
He also expressed hope that no further excessive police action would be taken against demonstrators.
"If such an assurance is given, I shall end my fast with faith that the Government has heard not only my appeal but also the aspirations of lakhs of young Indians," Wangchuk said.
However, he warned that without such an assurance, he would have no option but to continue his indefinite hunger strike.
Wangchuk Refers to July 20 'Chalo Sansad' Protest
In his letter, Wangchuk described the 'Chalo Sansad' march held on July 20 as peaceful despite what he termed "disproportionate use of force" by police authorities.
According to him, protesters displayed patience and faith in democratic institutions throughout the march.
He appealed to the government to ensure that no participant faces legal harassment or retaliatory action after exercising their democratic right to protest.
Support from Members of Parliament
The activist revealed that after the ministers' hospital visit, around 65 Members of Parliament from various political parties wrote to him expressing concern about his health.
Several MPs also reportedly met him personally and urged him to end the fast, reminding him of his contribution to education and public service.
Responding to their appeals, Wangchuk said:
"I want to live. I want to return to my students, to education, and to the work that has defined my life. But I cannot do so at the cost of the very young people for whom this movement began."
He concluded his letter by stating that the strength of democracy lies in how it treats young citizens who raise their voices peacefully.
CJP Reiterates Four Demands
Shortly after Wangchuk's statement, the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) reaffirmed that the agitation would continue until the government accepts all four of its demands.
The organization clarified that Wangchuk's willingness to end his fast does not automatically mean the larger protest movement will conclude.
Four Key Demands of the CJP
The CJP has listed the following demands:
| Demand | Details |
|---|---|
| Resignation of Education Minister | The party continues to seek the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. |
| Compensation | â‚ą1 crore compensation for families of students who allegedly died by suicide following the examination controversy. |
| Protection for Protesters | Written assurance that no peaceful protester will face criminal prosecution or legal action. |
| Action Against Police Personnel | Investigation and prosecution of officials accused of using excessive force against protesters during demonstrations. |
The organization has stated that nationwide protests will continue until these demands are formally addressed.
Background: NEET Paper Leak Controversy
The nationwide movement began after allegations surfaced regarding irregularities in the NEET undergraduate medical entrance examination.
Students, education activists, and opposition leaders demanded:
- A transparent investigation.
- Accountability for those responsible.
- Stronger examination security.
- Protection of deserving candidates.
- Fair admission processes.
- Institutional reforms.
The controversy has since evolved into a broader discussion on examination integrity and public accountability.
Police Action During the Protest
One of the most contentious moments occurred during the 'Sansad Chalo' march in New Delhi.
Thousands of students gathered at Jantar Mantar before attempting to march toward Parliament.
Police used:
- Barricades
- Lathi-charge
- Tear gas
to disperse the crowd after protesters attempted to move towards Parliament.
While protesters alleged excessive force, Delhi Police maintained that some members of the gathering turned violent, resulting in injuries to police personnel.
Legal Proceedings Continue
The Delhi High Court has already sought responses from both the Central Government and Delhi Police regarding allegations of excessive force used during the demonstrations.
Petitions before the court seek:
- A Special Investigation Team (SIT) probe.
- Inquiry into alleged police brutality.
- Preservation of CCTV footage.
- Accountability for officials involved in the incident.
The matter remains under judicial consideration.
Why This Protest Matters
The ongoing movement has become one of the country's largest student-led campaigns focusing on examination reforms.
Beyond the NEET controversy, the protest has raised broader issues including:
- Transparency in national entrance examinations.
- Accountability of examination authorities.
- Student mental health.
- Democratic right to peaceful protest.
- Institutional reforms in the education system.
Experts believe that restoring public confidence in competitive examinations will require comprehensive reforms and stronger security mechanisms.
What Happens Next?
The next phase of the protest now depends largely on the Central Government's response to Wangchuk's latest request.
If the government formally assures that peaceful protesters will not face legal or punitive action, Wangchuk has indicated he will end his fast. However, the Cockroach Janata Party has clarified that its broader agitation will continue until all four of its demands—including compensation for affected families, action against officials, protection for protesters, and accountability at the ministerial level—are addressed.
FAQs
Why is Sonam Wangchuk on a hunger strike?
He launched the hunger strike to demand accountability, examination reforms, and justice for students following the alleged NEET paper leak controversy.
What new condition has Wangchuk placed before ending his fast?
He has requested a written assurance from the Central Government that no legal or punitive action will be taken against peaceful student protesters.
Will the protests end if Wangchuk ends his hunger strike?
Not necessarily. The Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) has stated that its protests will continue until the government accepts all four of its demands.
What are CJP's main demands?
The organization seeks the resignation of the Union Education Minister, â‚ą1 crore compensation for affected families, protection for protesters from legal action, and action against police personnel accused of using excessive force.
Why has this issue gained national attention?
The controversy has sparked widespread debate over examination transparency, student welfare, institutional accountability, and the right to peaceful democratic protest across the country.
