Sonam Wangchuk Discharged After 26-Day Hunger Strike, to Pay Tribute at Rajghat Before Returning to Ladakh

New Delhi, July 2026 : Climate activist and education reform advocate Sonam Wangchuk has been discharged from Medanta Hospital in Gurugram after recovering from health complications following a 26-day hunger strike. Announcing his recovery on Monday, Wangchuk said he would first visit Rajghat in New Delhi to pay homage to Mahatma Gandhi before returning to his home in Ladakh.

Sharing the update on social media platform X, Wangchuk expressed gratitude to the medical team that cared for him during his treatment. “And finally… I’m being discharged from the hospital. Will be going to Rajghat to pay tribute to Mahatma Gandhi and then back to the mountains. Thank you all and a big thank you to the wonderful team of doctors and staff at Medanta Hospital Gurgaon,” he wrote.

In a video message, Wangchuk said his health had improved considerably and that he had resumed eating after ending his prolonged fast. He added that visiting Rajghat was important to honour Mahatma Gandhi’s ideals of truth, non-violence and peaceful democratic action before returning to Ladakh.

The activist also thanked doctors, hospital staff and well-wishers from across the country for their prayers and support during his recovery. He said the encouragement he received from citizens had strengthened his resolve to continue working for issues concerning the environment, education and democratic values.

Wangchuk’s discharge comes just days after he was admitted to hospital following the completion of his hunger strike. His fast had drawn significant public attention and sparked widespread discussions on governance, accountability and public policy.

Earlier, Wangchuk welcomed the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan following the controversy surrounding the alleged leak of the NEET examination question paper. Describing the development as a “victory for democracy,” he said it reflected the power of peaceful public participation and student-led movements.

Speaking to reporters after the resignation, Wangchuk urged the Central government to focus on comprehensive reforms in both the education system and governance. He stressed that ensuring transparency, accountability and fairness in competitive examinations was essential to protecting the aspirations of millions of students across the country.

“I congratulate all my fellow countrymen. This is a victory for democracy,” Wangchuk had said, while encouraging young people to remain vigilant and actively participate in safeguarding democratic institutions.

He also praised students, volunteers and civil society groups who raised concerns over examination irregularities through peaceful protests. Wangchuk specifically acknowledged the efforts of youth volunteers and members of his campaign, thanking them for maintaining discipline and non-violence throughout the movement.

Known for his advocacy on environmental conservation, sustainable development and educational reforms, Wangchuk has consistently championed peaceful methods of public engagement inspired by Mahatma Gandhi. With his recovery underway, he is expected to resume his work in Ladakh, continuing his campaigns on climate resilience, ecological protection and public policy while reinforcing his commitment to democratic dialogue and non-violent activism.