Kumar Bahukhandi
From his hospital bed, Sonam Wangchuk appeals for dialogue, urging the government to protect peaceful student protesters while indicating his willingness to end the fast under that assurance-Photo Credit-channel24india.com (File Photo)
In Short
- Sonam Wangchuk says he is willing to end his hunger strike if the government assures that no action will be taken against peaceful student protesters.
- Open letter released from the hospital, outlining his latest appeal to the Centre.
- Says two of his key demands have received positive assurances from Union Ministers.
- Protection of students who participated in peaceful protests remains his final and most important condition.
- Urges the government to resolve the issue through dialogue rather than punitive measures.
- Emphasises that peaceful democratic participation should not invite legal or disciplinary action.
- Describes safeguarding students as essential to rebuilding trust between citizens and the government.
- The development signals a possible breakthrough, with Wangchuk indicating he is prepared to conclude the fast if the remaining concern is addressed.
Activist says he has received assurances on two demands; seeks protection for peaceful student protesters
New Delhi: Social activist Sonam Wangchuk has indicated that he is prepared to end his hunger strike if the government guarantees that no punitive action will be taken against students who participated in peaceful protests. In a fresh communication to the Centre, Wangchuk urged the government to protect students from legal or disciplinary action, describing their demonstrations as democratic and peaceful.
In letters addressed to Union Ministers J.P. Nadda and Dr. Jitendra Singh, Wangchuk said he had received positive assurances regarding two of his major demands. However, he maintained that concerns surrounding students who joined the movement remain unresolved and deserve immediate attention.
According to Wangchuk, young people who raised their voices peacefully should not face criminal cases or administrative action for exercising their democratic rights. He argued that trust can only be rebuilt when dialogue replaces confrontation and citizens are free to express their concerns without fear.
The activist indicated that if the government formally assures that no action will be taken against the students involved in the protests, he would consider ending his fast. His statement signals a possible breakthrough after days of negotiations between his representatives and the Centre.
While acknowledging the government’s willingness to engage on certain issues, Wangchuk stressed that the protection of students remains a matter of principle rather than negotiation. He said any resolution should reinforce democratic values and encourage constructive dialogue between citizens and the government.
The development comes as efforts continue to find a mutually acceptable solution to the ongoing protest, with both sides expressing hope that discussions will lead to a peaceful conclusion.
