New Delhi : Engineer-turned-education reformer Sonam Wangchuk has released a written appeal addressed to the Union Government, seeking assurances before ending his ongoing fast over concerns related to students and the education system.
Wangchuk shared the letter on social media platform X, addressed to Union Ministers J. P. Nadda and Jitendra Singh, under the title “An Appeal to the Government Regarding Breaking My Fast.”
In his letter, Wangchuk thanked the ministers for visiting him at the hospital and for appealing to him to end his fast. He said that during their interaction, the ministers assured him that the government would positively consider his concerns.
Wangchuk highlighted key demands, including:
- Adequate compensation for families of students who died by suicide following the examination paper leak issue.
- A meaningful discussion in Parliament to ensure accountability, including consideration of the resignation of the Education Minister.
Referring to the student protest movement, Wangchuk said that the “Chalo Sansad” march held on 20 July 2026 remained peaceful despite what he described as excessive use of force by police.
He expressed hope that the faith of citizens in democratic institutions would not be weakened through legal cases, harassment, or any retaliatory action against those who participated in the protest.
Wangchuk said that around 65 Members of Parliament from different political parties had written to him, urging him to end his fast and reminding him of his continued role in serving the nation.
He said he wanted to return to his students, education work, and other responsibilities, but added that he could not do so at the cost of the young people for whom the movement had begun.
Seeking a clear assurance from the government, Wangchuk requested that no young protesters should face punitive or retaliatory legal action for participating in the movement.
He said that if such an assurance is provided, he would end his fast with the belief that the government has listened not only to his appeal but also to the aspirations of lakhs of young Indians.
He further stated that after receiving assurance from the government, he would appeal to peacefully protesting students to pause their movement and enter into dialogue with the authorities.
Wangchuk also urged that there should be no further use of excessive police force against protesters, saying that the future of democracy depends on how it treats young citizens who raise their voices with courage and conviction.
