New Delhi: Activist Sonam Wangchuk ended his 26 day hunger strike on Friday after receiving written assurances from the Central Government on key demands related to the NEET UG 2026 paper leak controversy and reforms to the examination system.
Wangchuk, who had been observing an indefinite fast over the examination scandal, concluded his protest following discussions with Union Ministers JP Nadda and Jitendra Singh at Medanta Hospital in Gurugram. His wife, Gitanjali J Angmo, was present when he ended the fast.
In a video message released after breaking his fast, Wangchuk said the government had provided written commitments following two days of negotiations. He explained that he had extended his fast by two days while insisting that the assurances be documented before agreeing to end the protest.
According to Wangchuk, the Centre has assured that the issue of accountability in the examination system and the NEET UG paper leak will be discussed in Parliament. The government has also promised compensation for the families of students who died by suicide following the controversy and assured that no cases will be registered against students who participated in protests at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi.
The activist expressed gratitude after ending his fast, describing the assurances as the beginning of a broader process of accountability. During the meeting, JP Nadda was seen reading out the government’s commitments before helping Wangchuk conclude his hunger strike.
Wangchuk had launched the protest on June 28 while demanding accountability over the paper leak and seeking the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. After being removed from the protest site by Delhi Police, he was initially admitted to Safdarjung Hospital before being shifted to Medanta Hospital following directions from the Delhi High Court.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also responded after Wangchuk ended his fast, wishing him a speedy recovery and urging him to follow medical advice. Addressing the paper leak controversy, the Prime Minister said the issue had deeply affected lakhs of students and their families, adding that the government had arrested those responsible, initiated fast track legal proceedings and would introduce stricter measures to prevent future paper leaks.
