Sonam Wangchuk Sets Conditions to End Hunger Strike

Activist Sonam Wangchuk has said he is prepared to end his 25-day hunger strike if the government provides assurances that protesting students will not face force or legal action.

In a video message released from a private hospital in Gurugram, where he was shifted from Safdarjung Hospital, Wangchuk said he has lost around 11 kilograms during the fast and has begun losing muscle mass, but added that he is "doing fine."

VIDEO | In a video message, activist Sonam Wangchuk says, “Greetings, friends. I am still alive. Today is the 25th day of my hunger strike. Over these 25 days, I have lost around 11 kg and have begun losing muscle mass, but I am doing fine. Last night, I was shifted from… pic.twitter.com/hmf25DFLH3

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He praised the students who participated in the protests, saying they showed "remarkable restraint" despite facing a lathi charge and repeated provocation. According to Wangchuk, the students remained peaceful even when stones were allegedly thrown by certain elements to incite violence.

Wangchuk said witnessing the action against the students strengthened his resolve to continue the hunger strike.

He also revealed that several political leaders, including ministers from the ruling party, had appealed to him to end his fast. He claimed that around 65 Members of Parliament had signed an appeal and personally urged him to resume his work in service of the nation.

However, Wangchuk set two conditions for ending the protest. He called on the government to ensure that no force is used against students and sought an assurance that they would not be subjected to FIRs, criminal cases, or police harassment.

"If I receive that assurance soon, I will, out of respect for all of you and the leaders who have appealed to me, end my hunger strike today itself," Wangchuk said. He added that if such assurances are not provided, he would continue his fast.

The activist concluded his message with "Jai Hind."