
Indian activist ends hunger strike after exam leak protests
Sonam Wangchuk has ended his 26-day hunger strike, which called for the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan following a series of exam paper leaks. Wangchuk announced the end of his fast after negotiations and concerns over potential violence. The hunger strike was in solidarity with the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) and millions of students affected by the leaks. Protests and unrest have continued, drawing national attention and condemnation from human rights groups.
What we know
- Sonam Wangchuk began his hunger strike in support of the CJP, demanding Dharmendra Pradhan’s resignation over exam leaks.
- Wangchuk ended his fast after negotiations and cited concerns about possible violence in the country.
- Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the issue in a video, promising tougher measures against exam paper leaks and faster court proceedings.
- Protests at New Delhi’s Jantar Mantar and other cities have seen unrest, with police using tear gas and batons against demonstrators.
- Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International criticized the government’s use of force and suspension of mobile internet services at protest sites.