Sonam Wangchuk's Hunger Strike Enters 20th Day
Activist Sonam Wangchuk continues his hunger strike, demanding Education Minister's resignation. Many public figures urge him to end his fast.

Sonam Wangchuk, a man of great integrity, has been on a hunger strike at Delhi's Jantar Mantar for nearly 20 days, demanding the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over the NEET paper leak scam.
The Delhi High Court has directed authorities to monitor Wangchuk's health daily and extend medical aid if his condition deteriorates. Many public figures, including Arvind Kejriwal, Vir Sanghvi, Vishal Dadlani, Shobhaa De, Aamir Khan, and Sonakshi Sinha, have urged Wangchuk to end his fast, citing the need for men like him to live and continue fighting for just causes.
Wangchuk's decision to go on a hunger strike is seen as a selfless act, driven by his concern for students who have suffered due to examination malpractices. He has been compared to Anna Hazare, another activist who fought against corruption.
However, the government does not seem to be sympathetic to Wangchuk's cause. He was arrested under the National Security Act in September last year for demanding statehood for Ladakh, and was released in March this year. The government has also been critical of his current fast, with some accusing him of politicizing the NEET paper leak issue.
The NEET paper leak scam is a significant issue, as it affects the future of students who aspire to become doctors. The examination is a crucial step in the selection process for medical colleges, and any malpractice can have serious consequences.
Wangchuk's fight is seen as a symbol of resistance against the government's handling of the issue. His decision to go on a hunger strike has drawn attention to the plight of students who have been affected by the scam.
The government's response to Wangchuk's demands has been lukewarm, with many expecting that Education Minister Pradhan will not resign unless ordered to do so by the high command. The lack of accountability and conscience among ministers is a concern, as highlighted by the contrast with former Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri, who resigned as Railway Minister taking moral responsibility for a train derailment.
As the hunger strike enters its 20th day, concerns about Wangchuk's health are growing. The Delhi High Court's directive to monitor his health daily is a welcome step, but it remains to be seen whether the government will take any concrete action to address the issues raised by Wangchuk.
The support for Wangchuk from public figures and citizens is a testament to the fact that his fight is seen as a just cause. As author R Raj Rao writes, Sonam Wangchuk's fight is our fight, and it is essential that we stand in solidarity with him to demand accountability and justice.
In conclusion, Sonam Wangchuk's hunger strike has brought attention to the NEET paper leak scam and the need for accountability in the government. His selfless act has inspired many, and it is essential that we continue to support him in his fight for justice.