Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk on Friday, 24 July 2026 ended his 26-day hunger strike after the Central government assured constructive dialogue and positive intervention on the NEET paper leak crisis and broader examination reform. The decision followed a meeting at Medanta Hospital, Gurugram, where Union Ministers J.P. Nadda and Dr Jitendra Singh held detailed discussions with Wangchuk and committed to parliamentary debate on examination accountability.

What the Government Committed To

In an official statement, the Centre outlined its assurances across three key areas. First, the government said it would not register cases against students who protested peacefully at Jantar Mantar or participated in the march to Parliament on 20 July 2026. Second, it pledged a 'threadbare discussion' in Parliament to find solutions to paper leaks and educational reform in the examination system. Third, it said it is 'positively considering suitable compensation' for families of suicide victims linked to the recent NEET paper leak.

The Hospital Meeting That Broke the Deadlock

Dr Jitendra Singh confirmed the meeting on social media platform X, writing that he and J.P. Nadda 'held a detailed discussion on students' concerns' with Wangchuk at Medanta Hospital and 'assured a constructive dialogue and positive intervention from the Government, following which Sonam Ji decided to end his fast.' He added that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the government 'remains committed to ensuring justice for students and strict action against anyone who tries to compromise their future.'

Cross-Party MPs Signed Support Before Ministers Arrived

Wangchuk, in a video message, revealed that approximately 65 Members of Parliament from different political parties had visited him, signed their support, and urged him to end the fast before the Union Ministers arrived. 'They assured me that the issue of paper leaks would be discussed. The same assurance was conveyed by the Union Ministers as well,' he said. He also disclosed that a written commitment — which had taken 'some time' to obtain — was finally received on the 26th day of his strike.

Wangchuk's Team Declares 'Beginning of Accountability'

Wangchuk's team announced the development on its official X handle with the message: 'END OF HUNGER… BEGINNING OF ACCOUNTABILITY…!' The post confirmed that assurances covered parliamentary discussion on the 'failing examination system,' compensation for families of NEET suicide victims, and no criminal cases against peaceful protesters. This comes amid sustained national pressure over the NEET-UG 2024 paper leak controversy, which triggered widespread student demonstrations across India and calls for a complete overhaul of the examination framework.

What Happens Next

The government's commitments are now expected to be tested on the floor of Parliament. With assurances given in writing and cross-party MP backing on record, student groups and civil society will be watching closely whether the promised debate translates into concrete legislative or administrative action on examination reform and compensation for affected families.