SCBA Backs Sonam Wangchuk, Voices Concern Over Government Silence on Exam Reform Protest
The Executive Committee of the Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) has passed a resolution expressing solidarity with social activist Sonam Wangchuk while appealing to him to end his indefinite hunger strike at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar. The Bar Association said it shares the concerns raised over alleged examination irregularities and expressed regret that the issues highlighted by the protest have not received an adequate institutional response.
The resolution acknowledged Wangchuk’s peaceful and democratic method of protest and described the issues he has raised as matters of significant public importance. While urging him to safeguard his health by ending the fast, the SCBA emphasized that the concerns surrounding transparency, accountability and fairness in India’s examination system deserve serious consideration by the authorities.
Expressing disappointment over what it termed a lack of meaningful governmental engagement, the Bar Association observed that prolonged silence from institutions on issues affecting millions of students undermines public confidence. It urged the Union Government to initiate constructive dialogue with Wangchuk and other stakeholders rather than allowing the situation to escalate further.
The SCBA also offered its legal expertise and research support for efforts aimed at strengthening transparency and accountability in the country’s educational and examination processes. The Association indicated that the legal fraternity has a role in promoting reforms that uphold constitutional values and protect the interests of students and young aspirants.
Wangchuk’s hunger strike has now entered its nineteenth day. He joined the fast in solidarity with the youth-led movement demanding comprehensive examination reforms and accountability following allegations of major examination paper leaks. Medical updates indicate that he has lost significant weight during the fast, prompting growing concern from doctors, civil society groups and public figures.
The Delhi High Court recently directed authorities to closely monitor Wangchuk’s health and intervene if medical experts consider it necessary, marking the first judicial intervention in the ongoing protest. Meanwhile, organisers continue preparations for a planned march to Parliament, maintaining that the movement will remain peaceful unless meaningful dialogue begins with the government.
The SCBA’s intervention is being viewed as a significant development because it brings one of the country’s most prominent legal bodies into the debate over examination reforms. Its resolution adds institutional weight to calls for dialogue while balancing support for Wangchuk’s cause with an appeal for him to end his fast in view of his deteriorating health.
