Indian activist Sonam Wangchuk ended a 26-day hunger strike on Friday following negotiations with government representatives. Wangchuk stated on social media that he concluded the fast in the presence of two federal ministers after appeals from members of parliament and discussions regarding national stability. The hunger strike was conducted in support of the "Cockroach" movement, a youth-led protest group seeking education reforms and the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.
The movement began more than a month ago in response to reported leaks of national entrance examination papers. Protesters have since expanded their demands to include government accountability for unemployment and compensation for families of students who died by suicide following the exam leaks. While Wangchuk has ceased his fast, organizers from the Cockroach Janta Party stated that demonstrations will continue, including nationwide events scheduled for Friday.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the issue this week, announcing the establishment of fast-track courts to prosecute individuals involved in examination leaks. Modi also stated the government intends to introduce legislation to prevent future breaches. Protest leaders described these measures as insufficient, maintaining their requirement for the education minister's resignation and broader systemic changes.
The protests have resulted in several confrontations between demonstrators and law enforcement. Earlier this week in New Delhi, police used tear gas and batons to prevent marchers from reaching Parliament. The movement's name, the Cockroach Janta Party, originated as a satirical reference to a comment made by the Chief Justice of India regarding unemployed youth.