Wangchuk to end fast if Parliament takes up education accountability, says Gitanjali Angmo
Education reform activist Sonam Wangchuk may end his indefinite hunger strike if political leaders commit to raising the issue of education accountability during the upcoming Monsoon Session of Parliament, according to his wife, Gitanjali J. Angmo. The statement has drawn national attention as protests over education reforms continue to gather momentum.
The development has also become part of the latest national news, with supporters hoping Parliament will address concerns over examination transparency and accountability.
Hunger strike may end with political assurance
Speaking to supporters at Jantar Mantar, Angmo said Wangchuk is not insisting that every demand be accepted immediately. Instead, he wants a clear assurance from political leaders that the issue of accountability in India's education system will be discussed during the Monsoon Session of Parliament. If such a commitment is made, he is prepared to end his fast.
According to Angmo, Wangchuk believes Parliament is the country's highest democratic platform, and meaningful discussion there would be an important first step toward education reform.
Focus remains on education accountability
The ongoing protest has centred on demands for greater transparency and accountability in the education system, particularly following controversies surrounding competitive examinations.
Supporters say the movement is intended to push for long-term reforms rather than short-term political gains. Wangchuk has maintained that restoring public confidence in the examination process should be a national priority.
March to Parliament faces restrictions
The announcement comes ahead of the proposed "Chalo Sansad" march, which has faced restrictions from the authorities. Delhi Police have reportedly not granted permission for the march, citing security arrangements around the beginning of Parliament's Monsoon Session. Despite this, supporters have continued their peaceful demonstrations and night vigil at Jantar Mantar.
Angmo has also said she is prepared to lead the movement if Wangchuk remains under medical supervision.
Wangchuk remains under medical care
Wangchuk is currently under observation at Safdarjung Hospital, where doctors are monitoring his health during the hunger strike. Hospital officials have described his condition as stable but said continued medical supervision remains necessary.
Despite being hospitalised, Angmo said Wangchuk has continued his fast and remains committed to his demands unless political leaders provide the assurance he has sought.
What happens next?
In one of the top news headlines India, attention is now on the Monsoon Session of Parliament, where political parties will decide whether to raise the issue of education accountability. If leaders engage with Wangchuk and make the commitment he has requested, his hunger strike could come to an end. Otherwise, his supporters say the movement will continue until its concerns receive a meaningful response.