‘Do I need a character certificate?’: Wangchuk, wife hit out at critics after climate activist ends 26-day hunger strike

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Wangchuk Questions Critics After 26-Day Hunger Strike Ends

Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk has publicly challenged his detractors following the conclusion of his 26-day hunger strike. In a heartfelt video message, the Ladakh educator posed a poignant question that resonated with millions: “Do I need a character certificate?” His words captured the frustration of someone who sacrificed his health for students yet faced unwarranted criticism.

A Plea for Understanding and Compassion

Wangchuk detailed the physical toll his fast took on his body. He revealed that he lost 11 kilograms during the demonstration, with significant muscle mass and vital organs pushed to the brink of irreversible damage. The activist endured these hardships while transitioning from the bitter cold of Ladakh to the scorching heat of Delhi.

After 26 days of fasting for the sake of students, losing 11 kilograms of body weight in which I have also lost muscle mass and my organs and brain reached the verge of irreversible damage, and doing all this in the scorching heat of Delhi after coming from the bitter cold of Ladakh, do I have to seek a character certificate from anyone about how sacred my fast was?

He urged the public to examine the motives of those criticizing him. Wangchuk suggested that many critics harbored personal grudges or belonged to political factions with existing conflicts. He emphasized that not everyone is qualified to judge a life of selfless service.

Shame on a country that produces such minds, from which such vile thoughts spring. I don’t blame anyone because most of you lack knowledge of what circumstances I have been through, what my family has been through in the past week or two… So before listening to anyone, be sure to look at their background.

Wife Defends Husband Amidst Criticism

Before Wangchuk’s video message, his wife Gitanjali J Angmo publicly defended her husband against those questioning his decision to end the fast. She reminded followers that the hunger strike began on June 28 at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar, coinciding with the Cockroach Janta Party’s demonstration.

Before you rush to criticise, first pause to earn the ethos of fasting for 26 days for a cause larger than yourself. He lies in the ICU today, having lost 11 kg, including muscle mass, because he chose sacrifice over comfort. The least we can offer him is a day of compassion before burdening him with our own expectations and political calculations.

Angmo emphasized that the fast was for a cause greater than personal comfort. She called for patience and understanding, noting that one must first earn the moral stature to judge such sacrifices.

Government Guarantees Prompt Fast’s Conclusion

Wangchuk’s decision to end his indefinite fast came after receiving written guarantees from the Central government. At Medanta Hospital, with Union Ministers JP Nadda and Jitendra Singh present, he announced the conclusion of his hunger strike. According to ANI, the guarantees covered the NEET examination matter and broader reforms to competitive testing systems.

Initially, verbal commitments were offered, but Wangchuk insisted on formal documentation. This insistence on a written agreement caused a two-day postponement in ending his protest, demonstrating his commitment to securing concrete promises for students.

Nationwide Protests Continue to Escalate

Initial protests regarding the NEET-UG paper leak commenced on June 20 at Jantar Mantar. Over the past week, demonstrations spread across multiple cities including Mumbai and Bihar. Following the Cockroach Janta Party’s “Chalo Sansad” march on Monday, law enforcement deployed lathicharge and tear gas against crowds moving toward Parliament.

The timing coincided with the opening of the Monsoon Session, drawing hundreds of additional participants. On Friday, CJP representatives met with government officials at the Constitution Club of India, maintaining that Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan’s departure remains essential.

Administrative Actions Signal Progress

In a significant development, the National Testing Agency dismissed 47 officials involved in the controversy. The agency confirmed that legal proceedings would follow against several individuals. Additionally, the Education Department appointed two new secretaries: Naresh Pal Gangwar as Secretary of Higher Education and TK Anil Kumar as School Education Secretary.

Whether the current impasse between students and the Central government will resolve soon remains uncertain. However, Wangchuk’s question—”Do I need a character certificate?”—continues to echo as a powerful reminder of the importance of compassion and understanding in public discourse.

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