NEET Paper Leak: Wangchuk Moderates Fast, Expects Accountability from Government

Shift in Protest Stance

Ladakh's prominent environmental activist and advocate for education reforms, Sonam Wangchuk, has made a significant shift in his stance regarding his hunger strike protesting the NEET exam paper leak. Previously adamant about demanding the immediate resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, Wangchuk now expects the government to "seriously consider" resignation and establish accountability in the entire affair.

This pivotal change came after discussions with senior representatives of the central government. According to government sources, the administration has assured Wangchuk that stringent action will be taken against those responsible for the NEET paper leak. Furthermore, the issue related to the Education Minister's resignation will also be given serious consideration.

Health Concerns and Meetings

Sonam Wangchuk's health has deteriorated due to the prolonged hunger strike, leading to his admission first at Safdarjung Hospital and later at Medanta Hospital. A team of doctors is continuously monitoring his health. Physicians have reported increased weakness due to prolonged fasting, though his treatment is ongoing.

Meanwhile, Union Health Minister JP Nadda and Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh visited Medanta Hospital to meet Sonam Wangchuk. Both leaders inquired about his health and urged him to end his hunger strike. Wangchuk clarified that his protest will continue until the government makes concrete decisions on his key demands.

Emphasis on Key Demands

Despite the softened demand for resignation, Sonam Wangchuk has maintained his other primary demands before the government. These include: justice for students affected by the NEET paper leak, a fair investigation into alleged irregularities, implementation of comprehensive reforms in the examination system, enactment of a strict law to prevent future paper leaks, and appropriate compensation for the families of students who committed suicide due to the paper leak.

He also demanded assurance that no punitive action will be taken against students participating in the movement. The government is facing increasing pressure, with Wangchuk's protest garnering widespread support from students, teachers, social organizations, and various political parties across the country.

Mounting Government Pressure

The main opposition parties are continuously urging the central government to ensure transparency in the examination system and take immediate and strict action against the guilty. The government, on its part, states that the investigation into the NEET paper leak is progressing rapidly and no one will be spared.

The Path Forward

All eyes are now on the central government's next move. If the government makes concrete and satisfactory decisions on Wangchuk's key demands, the long-standing protest could come to an end. Currently, Wangchuk's fast continues, and the dialogue process between the government and the protestors is also ongoing.