Sonam Wangchuk Vows to Continue Hunger Strike Unless Government Guarantees No Force Against Protesters

Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk has said he would end his indefinite hunger strike only if the central government assures him that no force will be used against protesting students and no FIRs or other punitive actions will be taken against them. In a video message from Gurugram's Medanta Hospital on Wednesday, Wangchuk stated that despite losing about 11 kg during his fast, he wants to return to his work.

"I am still alive. This is the 25th day of my fast. I have lost around 11 kg of weight. I have lost muscles. But I am alright," he said. "I want to start my work, but I request the government not to use force again on students and do not file any charges or FIRs. I need an assurance for that. If I get that assurance, I will break my fast today. If no assurance comes, I will be forced to continue it."

Wangchuk decided to continue his fast after police action against protesters during Monday's march to Parliament, which was organised by a group called the CJP. The activist described the police response as "brutal" but appreciated the restraint shown by students. "Because the attack was brutal, I decided to continue my fast. I want to appreciate all the students who received batons but did not attack, even though they were provoked," he said.

He noted that several political leaders, including Union ministers and 65 MPs, have urged him to end his fast. The activist, known for his work on education reform in Ladakh, has been on a hunger strike demanding the government's assurance regarding the safety of student protesters.

The metropolitan police have shut 17 Delhi Metro stations, including Jhandewalan, as a precautionary measure to maintain public order. The closures have disrupted commuters but authorities cite security concerns.