Activist Says Decision Was Driven by Concern Over Possible Crackdown on Protesters and Students
Social activist Sonam Wangchuk has denied allegations that he reached any agreement with the government before ending his hunger strike, stating that his decision was motivated by concerns for the safety and future of students and young protesters.
In a 24-minute video message released from Medanta Hospital, where he remains under medical observation, Wangchuk said his priority was to prevent possible legal action against young people participating in protests.
"Did Not Cut Any Deal"
Responding to criticism on social media, Wangchuk stated:
"I did not cut any deal" with the government.
He said the decision to conclude the hunger strike was taken after considering the potential consequences for students and protesters gathered at Jantar Mantar.
According to Wangchuk, protecting young participants from possible arrests and criminal cases became his primary concern.
Concern Over Students Facing Legal Action
Wangchuk said he focused on securing justice for students and young people against whom First Information Reports (FIRs) had reportedly been registered.
Referring to earlier events in Ladakh in September 2025, he recalled that many protesters had been arrested and jailed.
He stated:
"For me, the future of these young people is more important."
According to Wangchuk, those experiences influenced his decision to end the fast.
Hunger Strike Ended in Presence of Union Ministers
The hunger strike concluded around 12:30 a.m. on July 24, 2026.
According to reports, those present included:
- Union Minister J.P. Nadda
- Union Minister Jitendra Singh
- Wangchuk's wife
- Civil society representatives from Ladakh
Mr. Nadda reportedly served Wangchuk soup to formally conclude the fast.
Claims About Meeting Participants
In the video, Wangchuk also stated that he had wanted representatives of the Opposition and the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) to be present when the hunger strike ended.
However, he alleged that unnamed "agencies" did not agree to their participation.
This statement reflects Wangchuk's account. No official response regarding this claim had been reported at the time of publication.
Comments on Education Minister
Wangchuk also said he did not press specifically for the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, stating that ongoing student protests and public movements would determine the political course of events.
His remarks come amid continuing demonstrations relating to alleged examination irregularities and demands for reforms in public examinations.