Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk has outlined conditions for the government to bring his hunger strike to a close. In a letter to Union Health Minister J.P. Nadda and Minister of State Jitendra Singh, Wangchuk expressed gratitude for their visit to him at Medanta Hospital and their plea for him to halt the fast. Wangchuk highlighted the government’s commitments, including ensuring compensation for families of students affected by exam paper leaks and discussing accountability in Parliament.
Wangchuk also mentioned the peaceful ‘Chalo Sansad’ march on July 20, despite what he described as police using excessive force. He emphasized the importance of maintaining faith in democratic processes without resorting to legal actions or harassment against protesters. Wangchuk acknowledged the support from around 65 Members of Parliament from various parties who urged him to end his fast, emphasizing the need to continue his work for the nation.
The activist stressed the importance of ensuring that young protesters face no punitive measures for participating in the movement. He requested a clear assurance from the government on this matter to consider ending his fast. Wangchuk expressed his desire to return to his teaching duties and work for the betterment of education in the country. However, he indicated that he would persist with his hunger strike indefinitely if such assurances were not provided.
Wangchuk concluded by emphasizing the significance of how a democracy treats its young citizens who voice their concerns with courage and conviction. He highlighted the need for a fair and accountable education system without the use of excessive force to suppress dissent. Wangchuk, who had been on a hunger strike at Jantar Mantar, was later shifted to Safdarjung Hospital and subsequently to Medanta Hospital for medical treatment.
