August 5, 2026

India ‘cockroach’ activist Sonam Wangchuk ends 26-day hunger strike after PM’s midnight announcement

Sonam Wangchuk, India’s ‘cockroach’ activist, has ended his 26-day hunger strike after PM Modi’s midnight announcement, but protests continue to demand education minister’s resignation over the exam paper scandal that has sparked widespread outrage and calls for reform.

Sonam Wangchuk Meets Union Ministers as Centre Signals Parliament Debate on Education Reforms

Sonam Wangchuk Meets Union Ministers as Centre Signals Parliament Debate on Education Reforms - AI News Breaking

india cockroach activist sonam:

July 24, 2026 Editorial Team

India’s cockroach activist Sonam Wangchuk ended a 26-day hunger strike on Friday over an exam paper scandal that has spiralled into a wideranging youth-led protest against Narendra Modi’s government, with protesters continuing to call for the education minister to resign. The protests have been gaining momentum and have become a rallying point against corruption and alleged police brutality. The hunger strike was ended in Delhi in the presence of two federal ministers, at the urging of scores of members of parliament, and after a long negotiation on various conditions and in view of possible violence in the country.

 

Key Highlights:

  • Sonam Wangchuk ended his 26-day hunger strike shortly after midnight on July 24.
  • He broke his fast after negotiations with the Centre and assurances regarding exam paper leak reforms.
  • Prime Minister Modi announced fresh action on paper leaks and wished Wangchuk a speedy recovery.
  • The Cockroach Janta Party says protests will continue until Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan resigns.

 

Wangchuk, who has been a vocal critic of India’s education system and its alleged manipulation by the government, took on the moniker cockroach due to his perceived persistence in his campaign for educational reform. Wangchuk said on social media that he ended the hunger strike because of his desire not to see possible violence in the country, which has been a growing concern for many, including the government and protesters. The protest movement is urging demonstrations across the country on Friday, with many calling for the education minister to resign and for the government to take action against those responsible for the exam paper scandal..

The government has already taken steps to address the issue, including the resignation of several officials and the suspension of all exams in the affected region. However, the protest movement is not satisfied with these measures and is demanding further action. The protests have been peaceful so far, but the concern over violence has been growing..

Police officials have been accused of brutality in several incidents during the protests, which has further fueled anger and frustration among the protesters. Many have taken to social media to express their outrage, using the hashtag #JusticeForStudents to demand action from the government. The protests have also gained international attention, with many organizations and individuals speaking out in support of the students..

The exam paper scandal has highlighted the deep flaws in India’s education system, with many students and parents expressing their outrage over the situation. The protests are not just about the exam paper scandal but also about the broader issues of corruption and police brutality in the country. Wangchuk’s hunger strike was seen as a symbol of the protesters’ determination and resilience..

The government has been under pressure to address the situation and take action against those responsible for the exam paper scandal. The protests have been ongoing for several weeks now, with no signs of abating. Many are worried about the escalating situation and the possibility of violence breaking out..

Wangchuk has been a key figure in the protest movement, using his social media platform to mobilize support and encourage others to take action. His decision to end the hunger strike has been met with both relief and skepticism, with many wondering if the government will follow through on its promises. As the protests continue, there are concerns about the potential consequences of the situation..

Many are worried about the impact on the economy and the stability of the country. The government has been urging protesters to remain peaceful and has promised to address their concerns. The protests have not been without controversy, with some accusing the protesters of being manipulated by opposition parties..

However, most people see the protests as a genuine expression of dissent and frustration with the government. Wangchuk’s video explaining the details of the negotiations and the reasons behind ending his hunger strike is expected to shed more light on the situation. The video is likely to be widely watched and will be closely followed by the media and the public..

Experts say that the protests are a sign of a deeper crisis of faith in the government and its institutions. Many people are demanding greater transparency and accountability from the government, and the protests are a manifestation of this demand. The Indian government has a lot to do to repair its damaged image and regain the trust of its citizens..

The protests are a wake-up call for the government to address the concerns of its people and to implement meaningful reforms. In the meantime, Wangchuk’s hunger strike may have ended, but the protests will continue, and the country will be watching to see how the government responds to the protesters’ demands..

The fact that Sonam Wangchuk’s hunger strike was ended after a midnight announcement by the Prime Minister suggests that the government is finally feeling the pressure from the protests and is willing to negotiate, but it remains to be seen if this is just a tactic to appease the protesters or a genuine attempt at reform. The protests have tapped into a deeper sense of frustration and disillusionment among Indian youth,