After spending weeks on an indefinite hunger strike, activist Sonam Wangchuk has finally answered the question many have been asking—what will make him stop fasting?
Instead of setting a deadline, Wangchuk has placed the decision in the hands of India’s political leadership. He says he is not asking for immediate results. What he wants is a sincere commitment that the issues raised during his protest will not be ignored.
His statement comes just before Parliament’s Monsoon Session, making the timing especially significant.
“The Ball Is Now in Their Court”
Wangchuk believes the next move belongs to elected representatives.
According to him, if political leaders show genuine intent to act, there will be no reason for the protest to continue. He says the hunger strike was started to draw attention to larger public concerns, not to create confrontation.
He also made it clear that the movement is based on dialogue rather than conflict.
Three Ways the Protest Can End
Instead of making a single demand, Wangchuk has suggested three possible paths.
The first is a clear public assurance that the concerns raised during the protest will be addressed with accountability.
The second is for Members of Parliament to discuss the matter during the Monsoon Session. He believes Parliament is the right place for a national conversation on issues affecting citizens.
The third is a direct meeting with senior political leaders who are willing to publicly commit to taking the matter forward. Such an assurance, he says, would be enough for him to end the fast.
Health Continues to Be a Concern
The long fast has taken a visible toll on Wangchuk’s health.
Doctors are monitoring him closely and have advised continued medical supervision. Prolonged fasting can place heavy stress on the body, and medical teams remain alert to any complications.
Even so, Wangchuk has decided to continue unless there is a meaningful breakthrough.
Family Calls for Dialogue
His family has urged political parties to respond with discussion instead of confrontation.
They say the activist has always remained open to conversation and would immediately consider ending the fast if responsible leaders step forward with a genuine commitment.
Attention Turns to Parliament
The upcoming Parliament session is now expected to shape the next chapter of the protest.
If lawmakers take up the issue or political leaders respond positively, the hunger strike could soon end. If no action follows, the protest is expected to continue.
For now, Wangchuk says the decision no longer rests with him. He has stated his position clearly. The next response, he believes, must come from those in power.
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