Guwahati: Expressing concern over Sonam Wangchuk’s prolonged fast, the All Bodo Students’ Union (ABSU) has urged the Union government to begin talks with the activist over the protest at Jantar Mantar and appealed to him to end his indefinite hunger strike in the interest of his health.
Speaking in Kokrajhar, ABSU president Khwrwmdao Wary said Wangchuk should not continue risking his health while pursuing the campaign for students’ rights.
He noted that the activist has been on an indefinite hunger strike for the past 18 days over alleged irregularities in the NEET examination.
Wary said the student organisation backs peaceful democratic protests and believes the concerns raised by Wangchuk require a serious response from the central government.
Referring to the demonstration at Jantar Mantar, Wary said Wangchuk has been consistently raising issues related to the education system and the protection of students’ rights.
Calling Wangchuk a noted educationist, climate activist and recipient of the Upendranath Brahma Soldier of Humanity Award, Wary said his work has reflected the spirit and values associated with the honour.
He said Wangchuk has repeatedly called for greater transparency in education policies and fair, error-free competitive examinations, adding that such issues have a direct impact on the future of millions of students.
Describing the demands as legitimate, Wary appealed to the Union government to respond positively by opening discussions with the protest leaders so that the issues raised could be addressed through meaningful dialogue.
He also appealed to Wangchuk to discontinue the indefinite fast and focus on his health, saying his leadership would remain important for the continuing campaign to protect students’ rights.
Wary further urged Wangchuk to take care of his health and end the hunger strike, adding that his continued presence and leadership as a “soldier of humanity” would remain vital for the movement.
Meanwhile, the Delhi High Court agreed to hear a public interest litigation concerning Wangchuk’s health on July 16 after taking note of the urgency involved.
The petition seeks immediate medical assistance for the activist and asks the authorities to open talks with him, arguing that his prolonged fast warrants prompt intervention while safeguarding his right to peaceful protest.