New Delhi, July 23: Social activist Sonam Wangchuk marked the 26th day of his hunger strike on Thursday. During this period, he expressed his concerns about anti-social elements on the social media platform X.
In his post, he stated, “Peace and only peace is my path. While protests at Jantar Mantar are ongoing peacefully, it saddens me to learn that in other locations, some anti-social elements are attempting to incite violence by exploiting these peaceful demonstrations. Regardless of what the opposing side does, our response should only be as gentle as flowers. Please maintain this tradition at all costs.”
Earlier, on Wednesday, Wangchuk laid out conditions to end his hunger strike before the government. In a letter to Union Health Minister JP Nadda and Minister of State Jitendra Singh, he thanked them for visiting him at Medanta Hospital and appealing for the end of his strike.
In the letter, Wangchuk mentioned that during their conversation, he was assured that the government would positively consider providing adequate compensation to the families of students who committed suicide following the exam paper leak. Additionally, there would be meaningful discussions in Parliament to ensure accountability, including the consideration of the education minister‘s resignation.
Referring to the ‘Chalo Parliament’ march held on July 20, he noted that despite the police’s “atrocities and excessive use of force,” the march remained peaceful.
He emphasized that the entire nation and the world witnessed their patience and determination to protest democratically. “I sincerely hope that this trust in democratic institutions is not further weakened by any legal actions, harassment, or retaliatory measures against those involved,” he added.
Following the ministers’ visit, Wangchuk revealed that around 65 MPs from various political parties reached out to him, urging him to end his hunger strike.
He stated, “They reminded me that I still have much work to do for the country. I agree with them. I want to live. I want to return to my students, education, and the work that has given my life meaning. However, I cannot do so at the expense of the youth for whom this movement began.”
–
Leave a Comment