Sonam Wangchuk may end fast on June 20 if given assurance: Wife Geetanjali Angmo

New Delhi: Social activist and education reformer Sonam Wangchuk is likely to end his fast on July 20 if political leaders and Members of Parliament meet him at Safdarjung Hospital and assure him that the issues of accountability and education will be raised in Parliament.

The announcement was made by Geetanjali Angmo, wife of Wangchuk, who said the decision rests entirely on the assurance given by elected representatives.

"It is Sonam Wangchuk's decision that if leaders and MPs meet him tomorrow at Safdarjung Hospital, and assure him of raising the issues of accountability and education in the Parliament, only in that case Sonam will end his fast tomorrow," Geetanjali Angmo said.

"Sonam has requested all of us to take out tomorrow’s march peacefully and ensure that the protest is not misused,” she added.

Wangchuk, who has been on an indefinite fast, has been demanding greater accountability and reforms in the education sector. His protest has drawn support from civil society groups, students and environmental activists, with several political leaders expressing solidarity.

Supporters have been urging the government to engage in dialogue with Wangchuk and address the concerns raised during his fast. A meeting with MPs at Safdarjung Hospital is now expected to determine whether the noted innovator and educationist brings his fast to an end.

The 59-year-old Wangchuk has been on a fast since June 28 at Jantar Mantar, consuming nothing but salt and water.

Tags : Sonam Wangchuk, Safdarjung Hospital, Geetanjali Angmo, Fast, Jantar Mantar