The student movement at Delhi's Jantar Mantar has achieved a significant milestone as Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has resigned from his cabinet position, while this development comes after the demands of the protesting students were reportedly accepted following a period of intense agitation. Dharmendra Pradhan, who held the portfolio of the Education Ministry, has officially sent his resignation to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The news of his resignation has sparked celebrations among the student community who had been protesting for a considerable period.
Sonam Wangchuk Reacts to the Resignation
Social activist Sonam Wangchuk, who has been a prominent supporter of the students since the beginning of their movement, took to social media to express his joy and congratulate the youth. In his message, Wangchuk described the event as a victory for democracy. He stated that this is a victory of direct democracy that has emerged directly from the streets. He further emphasized that this outcome is a testament to the power of peace, patience, and perseverance. Wangchuk specifically extended his congratulations to the CJP and the country's Gen Z, acknowledging their role in the movement. He also expressed gratitude to all citizens who raised their voices from every corner of the country, overcoming their fears. According to Wangchuk, the focus must now shift from accountability to reform.
The Spread of the Student Movement
The student protest, which initially began at Jantar Mantar in Delhi, gradually gained momentum and spread to several other cities across the country, while the primary demand of the students was the resignation of the Education Minister, a demand that has now been met. The resignation is being seen as a major turning point in the ongoing dialogue between the government and the student community regarding educational reforms and administrative accountability.
Sonam Wangchuk's Hunger Strike and Hospitalization
Sonam Wangchuk's involvement in the protest was marked by a significant personal sacrifice. He had started a hunger strike on June 28 in support of the movement led by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) regarding the NEET paper leak issue at Jantar Mantar. During the course of his fast, Wangchuk's health deteriorated Importantly. He was initially admitted to Safdarjung Hospital for medical attention. Later, following the orders of the Delhi High Court, he was shifted to Medanta Hospital for further treatment. Despite his health challenges, Wangchuk continued his fast for 27 days, eventually ending it after certain developments and discussions.
Details of Ending the Fast
After breaking his hunger strike, Sonam Wangchuk shared details of the event on the social media platform X. He mentioned that he ended his 26 day fast in the presence of senior leaders, including Union Minister JP Nadda, Dr. Jitendra Singh, and senior members of the Leh-Ladakh Apex Committee. Wangchuk revealed that prior to ending his fast, 65 Members of Parliament from various political parties had either met him in person or written letters urging him to break his fast. He explained that the decision to end the hunger strike was made after long negotiations on various conditions and keeping in mind the potential for violence in the country. He promised to describe these conditions in detail in a separate video and urged everyone to remain vigilant to prevent any form of violence.