Renowned education reformer and environmental activist Sonam Wangchuk has begun an indefinite hunger strike at Delhi's Jantar Mantar in protest against the alleged NEET-UG paper leak and irregularities in the national examination system. He has demanded the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, emphasizing the need to establish accountability within the examination system.
Wangchuk said that the future of millions of students in the country depends on national-level examinations, and if questions are raised about the fairness of these exams, it becomes a matter of serious concern for the entire education system. He alleged that the recurring irregularities in the examination process have weakened students' trust and stressed that those responsible must be held accountable.
The movement is not limited to Sonam Wangchuk alone. Several student organizations, social activists, and some former government officials have also called for the Education Minister's resignation on moral grounds, citing alleged irregularities in national-level examinations. Protesters argue that comprehensive reforms and greater transparency in the examination system are the need of the hour. Concerns have also been raised about Wangchuk's health during the hunger strike. He is undergoing regular medical monitoring, and his associates have stated that he has lost weight and that his blood sugar level has declined. However, Wangchuk has said that he will continue his protest until his demands are given serious consideration.
Meanwhile, the central government has not made any official announcement regarding the demand for the Education Minister's resignation. The government says that necessary measures are being taken to make the examination system more secure and transparent. On the other hand, protesters are demanding an impartial investigation into the alleged examination irregularities, strict action against those found guilty, and the implementation of effective reforms to prevent such incidents in the future.
