Sonam Wangchuk in hospital
Sonam Wangchuk after ending hunger strike (BBC, 23 July 2026)

India Activist Sonam Wangchuk Ends 26‑Day Hunger Strike

Sonam Wangchuk, a leading advocate for youth‑driven education reforms, ended a 26‑day hunger strike after negotiating key conditions with authorities.

In a post on X, the 59‑year‑old announced he would stop fasting only once the government pledged no force against protesters and after a “long negotiation” on several points.

During the strike the activist lost 11 kg (24 lb) and was later forcibly removed from a protest site in Delhi, where he was admitted to a hospital for treatment.

He stands in solidarity with the Cockroach Janta Party, which calls for the resignation of India’s education minister, and hopes his actions will help avert potential violence across the country.