Indian social activist Sonam Wangchuk has been on a hunger strike for 17 days, demanding the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over exam paper leaks that affected millions of students.
Protests and Support
Wangchuk’s hunger strike is in solidarity with the founder of India’s youth Cockroach Janta Party, who is staging a sit-in demanding the minister’s resignation. The party has gained significant support among young Indians, with 22 million followers on Instagram.
Opposition leaders have urged Wangchuk to end his fast, citing concerns for his health. Wangchuk, 59, has lost 8.5 kg of weight and his health is deteriorating. Despite this, he remains adamant about continuing his hunger strike.
Exam Leaks and Unemployment
The exam leaks have sparked widespread outrage among students and parents, with many calling for the minister’s resignation. The issue has also highlighted the country’s high unemployment rate, particularly among young people. India’s unemployment rate was 3.1% in 2025, but nearly 10% among those aged 15 to 29.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
