New Delhi, July 24: Environmentalist and education reform advocate Sonam Wangchuk has ended his 26-day hunger strike after receiving written assurances from the Central Government on several key issues linked to the ongoing nationwide student movement over examination irregularities. While his fast has concluded, student organisations have made it clear that their larger campaign for accountability and education reforms will continue until their primary demands are addressed.
Wangchuk announced that he ended his fast in the presence of senior Union Ministers after discussions resulted in commitments from the government. According to protest representatives, authorities have assured that legal cases registered against students participating peacefully in demonstrations will be reviewed. The government has also agreed to examine proposals related to compensation for families affected by the recent examination controversy, marking the first major breakthrough since protests intensified across the country.
The student-led movement, centred around concerns over examination transparency and paper leak allegations, has drawn widespread public attention over the past several weeks. Thousands of students have participated in demonstrations demanding stronger safeguards for competitive examinations, greater accountability from authorities, and comprehensive reforms to restore confidence in the education system. The protests have expanded beyond Delhi, with solidarity marches and public gatherings reported in several states.
Despite Wangchuk’s decision to conclude his hunger strike, organisers said the movement is entering its next phase. Protest leaders stated that discussions with the government are welcome but insisted that demonstrations would continue until concrete policy measures are announced. They reiterated that the movement remains peaceful and urged supporters across the country to maintain discipline while expressing their concerns through democratic means.
Responding to growing public concern, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that the government has decided to establish fast-track courts dedicated to cases involving examination paper leaks. The initiative aims to ensure quicker investigations, faster trials, and stricter punishment for those found guilty of compromising competitive examinations. Officials said the move is intended to strengthen public trust in the country’s examination process and protect the interests of millions of students.
In a related development, the Delhi High Court designated a special court to exclusively handle criminal cases arising from paper leaks and unfair practices in public examinations. Legal experts believe the dedicated judicial mechanism could significantly reduce delays in prosecution and improve the effectiveness of investigations into organised examination fraud.
Meanwhile, security remained tight across central Delhi as authorities maintained restrictions around the Jantar Mantar protest site. Several Metro stations witnessed temporary closures, while additional police personnel were deployed to manage crowds and maintain law and order. Protest organisers appealed to participants to avoid any form of violence and continue expressing their demands peacefully.
Education experts say the developments could become an important turning point in the ongoing debate over examination reforms. While the government’s latest announcements have been welcomed as initial steps, many believe sustained policy changes, stronger institutional safeguards, and greater transparency will ultimately determine whether confidence in India’s examination system can be fully restored. As talks between student representatives and government officials continue, attention now shifts to the implementation of the promised measures and the future direction of one of the country’s largest student-led movements in recent years.
