Sonam Wangchuk Ends 26-Day Fast After Government Assurances

New Delhi, July 24, 2026 The end of Sonam Wangchuk’s 26-day fast marks a significant development in the ongoing discussion over examination reforms and student welfare. The decision came after talks between the social activist and the Centre, with the government reaffirming its commitment to addressing concerns related to examination integrity and paper leaks. The move has been projected as a step towards dialogue while keeping the interests of students at the forefront. Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal said Wangchuk’s decision to end his fast reflected his trust in the Narendra Modi government’s commitment to protecting students’ interests. In a post on X, Goyal said, “Sonam Wangchuk ji has ended his fast after my colleagues, Shri Jagat Prakash Nadda ji and Shri Dr Jitendra Singh ji met him at Medanta Hospital, Gurugram, and assured him of the government’s commitment to address the concerns. Wangchuk ji’s decision to end his fast reflects his trust in the Modi government’s commitment to students’ interests.” He further reiterated that the government would continue to act firmly against examination paper leaks and strengthen reforms in the examination system. Quoting Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Goyal added, “India’s youth are a force for nation-building and every culprit operating against the nation’s future will be punished.” Prime Minister Narendra Modi also welcomed Wangchuk’s decision and wished him a speedy recovery. In a post on X, he said, “I urge Sonam ji to follow his routine as per the doctors’ advice and regain his old weight as soon as possible. I pray to the Lord that Sonam ji remains healthy.” Announcing the end of his fast, Wangchuk said, “Just now, in the presence of Union Ministers JP Nadda and Dr. Jitendra Singh and senior leaders of the Apex Body of Leh-Ladakh, I finally broke my fast after 26 days. Earlier, 65 Members of Parliament from different political parties had visited or signed letters urging me to end my fast. This was done after a long negotiation on various conditions and in view of possible violence in the country.” Wangchuk added that he would explain the conditions of the agreement in detail through a separate video and appealed to people to remain vigilant while ensuring that no violence takes place anywhere in the country. The conclusion of the fast signals the beginning of the next phase of engagement, with attention now shifting to the implementation of the assurances and reforms discussed during the negotiations.