Indian activist Sonam Wangchuk has concluded a 26-day hunger strike, though demonstrators continue to demand the resignation of the education minister.

Indian activist Sonam Wangchuk ended a 26-day hunger strike on Friday following negotiations with federal ministers. The fast had become a central rallying point for the "Cockroach" protest movement, which emerged over a month ago to demand education reforms following leaks in competitive entrance exams.

Movement Demands and Government Response

The protest movement, spearheaded by the Cockroach Janta Party, has expanded beyond exam integrity to address broader concerns regarding unemployment and government accountability. Organizers have stated that demonstrations will continue until Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan resigns, with further protests planned across the country. Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently addressed the movement for the first time, announcing plans for fast-track courts to prosecute cases involving exam leaks. He also stated that his government intends to introduce legislation in Parliament to address the issue of paper leaks.

Protest Escalation and Negotiations

Wangchuk stated on X that he ended his fast after appeals from members of parliament and following negotiations regarding various conditions, citing a desire to avoid potential violence. The movement has seen significant public participation, with thousands of people gathering in New Delhi and other cities. Demonstrations have faced police intervention, including the use of tear gas and batons to disperse marchers attempting to reach Parliament. The movement's name, Cockroach Janta Party, references a remark by the country's supreme court chief justice comparing some unemployed youth to cockroaches.