Activist Sonam Wangchuk has offered to end his indefinite hunger strike if political leaders assure him that the issue of education accountability will be raised in the Parliament session, according to Gitanjali Angmo. The statement comes as the Monsoon Session of Parliament is set to begin.
Wangchuk's Condition to End Hunger Strike
According to The Hindu, Gitanjali Angmo stated that Wangchuk will end his fast if the Parliament session focuses on education accountability. The activist has been demanding accountability in the education system and broader examination reforms.
As reported by The Print, Wangchuk is willing to call off his indefinite hunger strike if political leaders meet him and assure him that the issue of education accountability will be raised in Parliament.
Protest at Jantar Mantar
The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) has been protesting at Jantar Mantar since June 20, demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over alleged irregularities in the NEET exam. The proposed 'Chalo Sansad' march to Parliament was planned to press for action over the alleged NEET paper leak and accountability in the education system.
"Wangchuk will call off his indefinite hunger strike if political leaders meet him and assure him that the issue of education accountability will be raised in Parliament." — PTI News
Security Tightened Ahead of Parliament Session
Security was tightened across central Delhi ahead of the proposed march to Parliament. Delhi Police stated that no permission had been sought or granted for the procession, even as thousands of protesters gathered for a night-long vigil at Jantar Mantar. The march was scheduled to coincide with the opening day of the Monsoon Session of Parliament.
Our Take: A Strategic Offer for Dialogue
Wangchuk's offer to end his hunger strike if Parliament focuses on education accountability is a significant move. It shifts the responsibility from the streets to the halls of Parliament. In our view, this is a reasonable demand — accountability in education affects millions of students across India. The ball is now in the court of political leaders. If they take up this issue, it could lead to meaningful reforms and de-escalate the ongoing protests. If not, the standoff will likely continue.
