Activist Sonam Wangchuk ended his 26-day hunger strike early Friday after prolonged discussions with representatives of the Centre, marking a significant development in the ongoing protests over the alleged NEET-UG 2026 paper leak. Wangchuk, who had been admitted to Medanta Hospital in Gurugram, broke his fast in the presence of Union Health Minister J.P. Nadda and Union Minister Jitendra Singh. The development came hours after Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that the Union Cabinet would consider stronger legal measures against paper leaks, including stricter penalties and fast-track judicial proceedings.

Hunger Strike Ends

Wangchuk announced on social media that he had ended his fast after 26 days, stating that the decision followed extensive negotiations and appeals from political leaders across party lines.

According to his statement, 65 Members of Parliament had either visited him or urged him through letters to end the hunger strike. He said the decision was also influenced by concerns over maintaining peace and preventing any possibility of violence.

Union Ministers Visit Hospital

Union Health Minister J.P. Nadda and Union Minister Jitendra Singh visited Medanta Hospital in Gurugram shortly after midnight.

The two ministers offered juice to Wangchuk, formally marking the end of his fast. The meeting followed discussions between government representatives and members of the Apex Body of Leh-Ladakh regarding the demands raised during the protest.

PM Modi's Message

Prime Minister Narendra Modi wished Wangchuk a speedy recovery in a video message released on Friday.

The Prime Minister reiterated that the Union Cabinet would take up proposals for stricter action against examination paper leaks, including provisions aimed at ensuring swift investigation and punishment of those responsible.

The announcement follows growing nationwide concern over alleged irregularities in competitive examinations and recruitment tests.

Education Ministry Reshuffle

Amid the continuing controversy, the Centre also announced key administrative changes in the Ministry of Education.

Naresh Pal Gangwar has been appointed as Secretary, Department of Higher Education, replacing Vineet Joshi, who has been transferred to the Ministry of Panchayati Raj.

In another appointment, T.K. Anil Kumar has taken charge as Secretary of the Department of School Education and Literacy.

The changes are part of a broader bureaucratic reshuffle announced by the government.

Protests Continue

The Cockroach Janata Party (CJP), which has been leading protests over the alleged paper leak issue, has called for nationwide peaceful demonstrations on July 24.

The protests follow the police action during the Parliament march held on July 20, when several demonstrators alleged the use of force against students participating in the rally.

Background Of The Issue

The alleged NEET-UG 2026 paper leak has triggered widespread protests by students, civil society groups, and opposition parties demanding greater accountability and stronger safeguards for public examinations.

Investigative agencies continue to probe the matter, while the Centre has indicated that further legal and administrative measures are under consideration to strengthen examination security and restore public confidence.