PM Modi Urges Sonam Wangchuk to Regain Health After Ending 26-Day Hunger Strike

July 24, 2026

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday urged education reform activist Sonam Wangchuk to follow medical advice and regain his health after the activist ended his 26-day hunger strike following government assurances on examination reforms and accountability.

In a post on X, the Prime Minister wished Wangchuk a speedy recovery and encouraged him to focus on his health.

“I urge Sonam ji to follow the doctors’ advice in his daily routine and regain his old weight as soon as possible. I pray to the Almighty for his good health,” PM Modi said.

Wangchuk Ends 26-Day Hunger Strike

Wangchuk ended his fast earlier on Friday at Safdarjung Hospital in the presence of Union Ministers J.P. Nadda and Jitendra Singh, senior members of the Apex Body of Leh Ladakh, doctors and family members.

The activist concluded his hunger strike after receiving written assurances from the Central government that issues related to examination reforms and accountability in the education system would be discussed in Parliament.

His 26-day fast had drawn support from students, education activists, civil society organisations and lawmakers from across political parties.

Centre Plans Tougher Anti-Paper Leak Law

Alongside the appeal to Wangchuk, Prime Minister Modi said the Centre has prepared a comprehensive draft Bill aimed at strengthening laws against examination paper leaks.

According to the Prime Minister, the proposed legislation will include stricter legal provisions and harsher punishments for those involved in paper leak cases.

The draft Bill is expected to be discussed at the Union Cabinet meeting before being introduced in Parliament during the ongoing Monsoon Session.

The proposed legislation is part of the government’s broader effort to improve transparency, accountability and the integrity of public examinations across the country.

Support from MPs Across Parties

During the course of his hunger strike, Wangchuk said around 65 Members of Parliament either met him personally or sent letters requesting him to end his fast.

He said the decision to conclude the protest came after extensive discussions with the government and assurances that the concerns raised during the agitation would receive parliamentary attention.

Wangchuk also stressed the importance of maintaining peace and avoiding any form of violence while pursuing democratic reforms.

Why the Hunger Strike Drew National Attention

Wangchuk’s fast became one of the country’s longest recent hunger strikes by a prominent activist and sparked nationwide debate on examination reforms, accountability and governance.

With the protest now concluded, attention is expected to shift to Parliament, where the Centre’s proposed anti-paper leak legislation and broader education reforms are likely to be discussed in the coming days.