Activist ends 26-day hunger strike fearing crackdown, cites Ladakh firing

Activist Sonam Wangchuk concluded his 26-day hunger strike, stating he received written assurances from the central government and feared an imminent crackdown on protesters. He recalled a 2025 incident where police fired on youth in Ladakh and wanted to prevent similar violence.

“

Last night around midnight, I was told the ministers had agreed to give the assurance in writing. I was in a hurry because the situation in Delhi was such; there was apprehension that a major crackdown could happen.

Wangchuk dismissed claims of a deal with the government, emphasizing his primary goal was to ensure the safety of students involved in the protests. He explained that he did not demand the Education Minister's resignation during negotiations, as his priority was to prevent legal actions against protesters. He expressed confidence that the minister would eventually resign.

In a YouTube video, Wangchuk stated, "Last night around midnight, I was told the ministers had agreed to give the assurance in writing. I was in a hurry because the situation in Delhi was such; there was apprehension that a major crackdown could happen." He added, "I was watching reports and was reminded of September 24, 2025, when police and CRPF personnel mercilessly fired at the youth of Ladakh. I was afraid something similar could happen here."

“

I was watching reports and was reminded of September 24, 2025, when police and CRPF personnel mercilessly fired at the youth of Ladakh. I was afraid something similar could happen here.

Responding to criticism, Wangchuk questioned why anyone would endure a 26-day fast if a deal could have been struck in comfort. He alleged that after being moved to Safdarjung Hospital on July 18, he was treated "like a prisoner," denied movement, visitors, and his phone or laptop, describing the experience as "like being in North Korea."

“

If I had to make a deal, would I have remained hungry for 26 days? Could I not have struck a deal sitting in an air-conditioned room instead of fasting in Delhi's heat?

He said Union ministers met him and agreed to consider compensation for families of students who died by suicide after the alleged NEET paper leak and to discuss accountability in the examination system in Parliament. However, Wangchuk insisted he would not end his fast without written assurance against legal action for peaceful protesters, which he eventually secured.

“

It was like being in North Korea.