Climate activist and education reformer Sonam Wangchuk on Friday ended his 26-day hunger strike after discussions involving Union ministers, senior government representatives and leaders of the Apex Body of Leh Ladakh.
Wangchuk announced that he broke his fast in the presence of Union Ministers JP Nadda and Dr Jitendra Singh, along with senior leaders of the Apex Body of Leh Ladakh. The activist said the decision came after prolonged negotiations and consultations over several conditions linked to his demands.
In a statement shared on social media, Wangchuk said that 65 Members of Parliament from different political parties had either visited him or sent letters urging him to end the fast. He said the intervention of political leaders and concerns over the possibility of violence across the country were among the factors behind his decision.
“I finally broke my fast after 26 days,” Wangchuk said, adding that he would explain the conditions agreed upon during the negotiations in detail in a separate video soon.
Reacting to the development, CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke posted on X, "We are relieved and grateful that Sonam sir has ended his hunger strike after 26 days. Thank you, sir, for your extraordinary courage and sacrifice. By putting your own life on the line, you awakened the conscience of an entire nation. Your life is far too precious to this country. The Cockroach Janta Party’s peaceful protest at Jantar Mantar will continue until Dharmendra Pradhan resigns."
Soon after Wangchuk broke his fast, PM Narendra Modi posted on X, advising the activist to "resume his routine" and "regain his weight".
I urge Sonam ji to follow her routine as per the doctors' advice and regain her old weight as soon as possible. I pray to the Lord that Sonam ji remains healthy.PM Narendra Modi
The fast had drawn attention to issues concerning Ladakh, including demands raised by regional groups related to statehood, constitutional safeguards, environmental protection and greater representation for the Union Territory.
Wangchuk, who has frequently campaigned on issues of Himalayan ecology and sustainable development, also appealed for restraint among his supporters. He urged people to remain vigilant and ensure that “violence of any kind” does not take place anywhere.
The activist’s decision to end the fast comes amid ongoing discussions between Ladakh representatives and the Centre over various political and administrative demands raised by groups in the region.