Climate activist and education reformer Sonam Wangchuk has announced that he has been discharged from Medanta Hospital in Gurugram and will visit Rajghat in New Delhi to pay tribute to Mahatma Gandhi before returning to his home in Ladakh.
Sharing the update through a video and social media on July 27, Wangchuk also expressed gratitude to the doctors, nurses and hospital staff who cared for him during his recovery following a 26-day hunger strike linked to protests over alleged irregularities in the NEET examination and broader demands for education reforms. His discharge marks the latest development after days of legal proceedings, hospitalisation and negotiations that eventually led to the end of his fast.
A Message Of Gratitude
In his video message, Wangchuk said his first stop after leaving the hospital would be Rajghat, where he intends to pay homage to Mahatma Gandhi before heading back to the mountains of Ladakh. “I’m being discharged from the hospital. Will be going to Rajghat to pay tribute to Mahatma Gandhi and then back to the mountains,” he said. He also extended a heartfelt thanks to the medical team at Medanta Hospital, Gurugram, acknowledging their care throughout his treatment.
“A big thank you to the wonderful team of doctors and staff at Medanta Hospital Gurgaon,” he added. Wangchuk had been admitted after ending his 26-day hunger strike, during which he reportedly lost significant weight and required close medical supervision. Earlier, the Delhi High Court had directed that he be shifted from Safdarjung Hospital to Medanta after he sought treatment at a hospital of his choice, with the court asking Medanta to constitute a specialised medical team to monitor his condition.
From Protest To Recovery
Wangchuk joined the protest on June 28 in solidarity with demonstrators raising concerns over alleged irregularities in the NEET examination and demanding greater accountability in India’s examination system. His indefinite hunger strike continued for 26 days before ending at Medanta Hospital after discussions involving government representatives and protest leaders.
Union ministers had earlier met Wangchuk, while he stated that assurances had been given on discussing examination reforms, accountability for paper leak allegations and protecting peaceful protesters from legal action. His hospitalisation also drew public attention after he alleged that he faced restrictions while at Safdarjung Hospital before being transferred to Medanta following the Delhi High Court’s intervention. Safdarjung Hospital, however, maintained that the transfer was carried out immediately after it received the court’s written order.
With his discharge, Wangchuk’s decision to visit Rajghat underscores his emphasis on Gandhian ideals of peaceful protest before returning to Ladakh after weeks of agitation and recovery.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
Sonam Wangchuk’s discharge signals the end of a physically demanding chapter, but it also serves as a reminder that democratic societies are strengthened when disagreements are addressed through dialogue rather than confrontation. His decision to pay tribute to Mahatma Gandhi before returning home reinforces the symbolism of peaceful dissent and the enduring relevance of non-violence in public life.
Regardless of differing opinions on the demands or methods of protest, safeguarding the rights, dignity and health of every citizen remains essential in a vibrant democracy. Constructive engagement between governments, institutions and citizens offers the most sustainable path towards meaningful reform. Do you think peaceful dialogue and public participation can play a bigger role in shaping reforms to India’s education system? Share your thoughts in the comments.
AND FINALLY….
— Sonam Wangchuk (@Wangchuk66) July 27, 2026
I'm being discharged from the hospital. Will be going to Rajghat to pay tribute to Mahatma Gandhi and then back to the mountains.
Thank you all and BIG THANK YOU to the wonderful team of doctors and staff at Medanta Hospital Gurgaon. pic.twitter.com/BBp5k6JY9X
