Climate activist and education reform advocate Sonam Wangchuk has said he is prepared to end his indefinite hunger strike if the Central Government gives an "unequivocal assurance" that no punitive or retaliatory action will be taken against students who participated in the NEET-UG paper leak protests. In a letter addressed to Union Ministers J.P. Nadda and Jitendra Singh, Wangchuk also reiterated demands for accountability, compensation for affected families, and parliamentary discussion on the controversy.

Wangchuk thanked the two Union ministers for visiting him in hospital and said they had assured him that the government would positively consider several issues raised during their discussions.

Seeks protection for student protesters

The activist said his foremost condition for ending the fast is a clear commitment that students involved in the protests will not face legal cases or retaliatory action.

In his letter, Wangchuk stated that the young protesters had participated peacefully to demand a fair and accountable education system and should not be penalised for exercising their democratic rights.

Referring to the 'Chalo Sansad' march held on July 20, he described the demonstration as peaceful and expressed concern over what he termed disproportionate police action during the protest. He appealed to the government to ensure that students are not subjected to harassment or legal proceedings for their participation.

Calls for accountability and compensation

Wangchuk also reiterated his demand for adequate compensation for the families of students who allegedly died by suicide following the NEET-UG paper leak controversy.

He further called for a meaningful discussion in Parliament on the issue to ensure accountability, including consideration of the resignation of the Union Education Minister as part of the broader debate.

Cross-party support

According to Wangchuk, nearly 65 Members of Parliament from different political parties contacted him after the ministers' visit and appealed to him to end his fast.

While expressing his desire to return to his work in education and with students, he said he could not end the hunger strike without securing assurances for those who had participated in the movement.

Democracy and students' rights

Concluding his letter, Wangchuk argued that the manner in which young citizens are treated during peaceful protests reflects the strength of democratic institutions.

He maintained that he would immediately end his fast if the government provides the requested assurance regarding the safety of student protesters. Otherwise, he said, he would continue the hunger strike until his demands are addressed.

The letter comes amid continuing political debate over the NEET-UG paper leak and the handling of student protests, with calls from multiple quarters for greater transparency, accountability, and protection of students' democratic rights.