Sonam Wangchuk to End Hunger Strike if Government Accepts Accountability on Education Failures
Climate and education activist Sonam Wangchuk announced on Sunday that he will end his ongoing hunger strike on Monday if the government acknowledges its failures in the education system, or if Members of Parliament agree to raise the issue in Parliament. The statement comes ahead of a planned march by the activist group to Parliament on July 20, 2026, to demand education reforms.
The protest, which has drawn support from political leaders, actors, and ordinary citizens, continues at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi. Authorities have deployed security personnel and placed barricades, citing that no permission has been granted for the proposed march to Parliament. The group plans to start the 1.5-kilometre march from Jantar Mantar at 9 a.m., passing through Patel Chowk roundabout and ending at the new Parliament building.
Wangchuk, known for his work on climate change and education reforms in Ladakh, has been on a hunger strike since earlier this month. He has demanded that the government take responsibility for systemic failures in the education sector, including lack of access, outdated curricula, and inadequate funding. The protest has gained momentum with several civil society groups expressing solidarity.
The security arrangements in Delhi have been heightened, with riot control equipment and personnel deployed near the protest site and along the planned march route. The group has called for more people to join the protest, potentially leading to a large gathering. The Monsoon Session of Parliament begins on Monday, which the activists hope will give their demand a platform.
No official comment has been received from the government regarding Wangchuk's conditional offer to end the hunger strike. The situation remains tense as both sides await Monday's developments.
