Sonam Wangchuk Ends 26-Day Hunger Strike After Talks with Centre, Urges Peace and Vigilance

New Delhi, July 2026 : Activist Sonam Wangchuk on Friday ended his 26-day hunger strike after prolonged negotiations with the Centre, bringing to a close one of the most closely watched public protests in recent years. The fast was concluded at Safdarjung Hospital in the presence of Union Ministers J.P. Nadda and Dr. Jitendra Singh, senior leaders from Ladakh, doctors, family members and supporters.

Wangchuk, who had undertaken the indefinite fast to press for greater autonomy for Ladakh and stronger environmental safeguards, expressed gratitude after ending the protest. As medical staff offered him liquids to break his fast, he thanked everyone who had supported him during the challenging period.

“So with that being fulfilled, I am grateful, and I’ll be happy to break my fast. Thank you,” Wangchuk said before ending the fast. He was also presented with a ceremonial scarf as family members and supporters applauded the conclusion of his protest. Doctors attending to him confirmed that his condition was stable, although they said he would continue to remain under medical observation during his recovery.

The activist also acknowledged the presence of senior representatives of the Apex Body of Leh-Ladakh and the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA), thanking them for travelling from Ladakh to stand by him throughout the movement. He described his family as a constant source of strength and encouragement during the 26-day fast.

Later, Wangchuk shared a message on social media, revealing that his decision to end the hunger strike followed extensive discussions with the government and appeals from political leaders across party lines.

He stated that around 65 Members of Parliament had either personally visited him or signed letters urging him to end the fast, expressing concern over his health and the possibility of unrest. Wangchuk said the decision came after prolonged negotiations on several conditions, the details of which he promised to disclose in a separate video.

While announcing the end of his protest, Wangchuk appealed to citizens and supporters to maintain peace and remain vigilant against any form of violence. He stressed that democratic movements should continue peacefully and responsibly.

The conclusion of the hunger strike follows weeks of growing concern from political leaders, civil society organisations and members of the public over Wangchuk’s deteriorating health. His protest had drawn national attention and reignited discussions on issues related to Ladakh’s governance, environmental protection and democratic engagement.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi reiterated the government’s commitment to tackling examination paper leaks by announcing that the Centre has prepared a comprehensive draft Bill providing for stricter legal provisions and tougher punishments for those involved in such offences.

In a video message posted on social media, the Prime Minister said stronger action against paper leaks would be discussed by the Union Cabinet and that the proposed legislation is expected to be introduced during the ongoing session of Parliament.

PM Modi acknowledged the anxiety and hardship caused by examination paper leaks, saying they have deeply affected students and their families across the country. He noted that over the past two-and-a-half months, the government had taken several steps to investigate such cases, leading to the arrest and imprisonment of those allegedly responsible.

The Prime Minister also highlighted the government’s efforts to ensure that examinations for nearly 2.2 million students were conducted without further delay and pointed out that results had been declared recently, bringing relief to successful candidates.

He assured students that the government would continue strengthening the examination system and would not become complacent in its efforts to safeguard the future of young aspirants.

With Wangchuk’s fast now concluded, attention is expected to shift towards the implementation of the assurances discussed during negotiations and the government’s proposed legislative measures, while the activist has indicated that he will soon provide further details about the conditions that led to the end of his 26-day protest.