Sonam Wangchuk Ends 26-Day Hunger Strike After Talks With Centre

Activist Sonam Wangchuk brought his 26-day hunger strike to an end on Friday in New Delhi in the presence of Union Ministers JP Nadda and Jitendra Singh, along with doctors, family members and supporters. He had launched the protest to demand greater autonomy for Ladakh and stronger measures to protect the region’s fragile environment.

Before breaking his fast, Sonam Wangchuk thanked everyone who had stood by him throughout the protest. He also acknowledged the support of the Apex Body of Ladakh and the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA), whose representatives travelled from Ladakh to join him.

Medical staff assisted him in ending the fast, while doctors confirmed that his condition was stable.

Sharing an update on X, Sonam Wangchuk said prolonged discussions and concerns over possible unrest influenced his decision to conclude the fast. He noted that 65 Members of Parliament from different political parties had either visited him or appealed for him to end the protest.

Wangchuk added that he would soon release a detailed video explaining the conditions reached during the negotiations and urged people to maintain peace.

Just now in the presence of Union Ministers Sh. JP Nadda, Dr. Jitendra Singh and the senior leaders of Apex Body of Leh Ladakh I finally broke my fast after 26 days. Earlier 65 members of parliament from different political parties had visited or signed letters urging me to break… pic.twitter.com/RFCet7Oksy

— Sonam Wangchuk (@Wangchuk66) July 23, 2026

Political leaders and civil society organisations had repeatedly urged Wangchuk to end his fast as concerns over his health continued to increase. His family remained with him throughout the protest and offered constant support during the difficult period.

In a separate development, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that the Union Cabinet would examine a draft Bill proposing stricter penalties for paper leak offences. He said the government had already intensified action against examination malpractice and remained committed to safeguarding students’ futures.

The proposed legislation is expected to be introduced during the ongoing session of Parliament next week.

Also Read: Watch: PM Modi Shares Video Message On Paper Leaks, Announces Tough Action