Sonam Wangchuk Ends 26-Day Hunger Strike After Government Assurances; CJP Says Protest Will Continue Until Dharmendra Pradhan Resigns

Activist Sonam Wangchuk has officially ended his 26-day indefinite hunger strike after receiving written assurances from the Central government on several key demands related to the alleged NEET paper leak controversy.

The announcement was made late Thursday by Leh Apex Body co-convenor Cherring Dorjay Lakruk, who said Wangchuk broke his fast in the presence of two Union Ministers after the government agreed to specific conditions.

According to Lakruk, the Centre provided a written assurance that criminal cases against students who participated peacefully in the protests would be withdrawn, provided they were not involved in any acts of violence. The government also assured that it would consider compensation for the families of NEET aspirants who lost their lives amid the examination controversy.

Following the announcement, Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) founder Abhijeet Dipke expressed relief that Wangchuk had ended his fast. However, he clarified that the movement was far from over, stating that the CJP would continue its nationwide protest until Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan resigns and accountability is ensured.

PM Modi Announces Measures Against Paper Leaks

On the same day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the nation through social media, acknowledging the seriousness of examination paper leaks.

He stated that a paper leak is "no ordinary lapse" but an injustice that causes immense distress to millions of students and their families. The Prime Minister said the government had taken swift action over the past two and a half months, resulting in the arrest of those allegedly involved in the paper leak cases.

Earlier, Mr. Modi also announced the establishment of fast-track courts to ensure speedy trials and strict punishment for individuals involved in examination paper leaks.

Delhi High Court Designates Special Fast-Track Judge

In another significant development, the Delhi High Court designated Judge Anu Grover Baliga as the Special Judge to preside over fast-track court proceedings related to criminal cases involving examination paper leaks and the use of unfair means in public examinations.

The move is expected to accelerate legal proceedings in cases linked to alleged examination irregularities.

Protests Continue

Although Sonam Wangchuk has concluded his hunger strike, protests led by the Cockroach Janta Party are expected to continue. The organisation has reiterated that it will intensify its campaign until its key demands, including the resignation of the Union Education Minister and broader reforms in the examination system, are addressed.