New Delhi, July 24: In twin developments that underscored the central government’s twin focus on student welfare and sensitive regional issues, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday announced that a tough new anti-paper leak Bill would be placed before the Union Cabinet on Friday and rushed to Parliament next week, while climate activist Sonam Wangchuk on Friday ended his 26-day hunger strike after high-level intervention by Union ministers.
The Prime Minister, in a video message posted on his official X handle, said the government had prepared a comprehensive draft Bill containing stricter provisions and stringent punishments for those involved in examination paper leaks.
“More strict actions against paper leaks to come in tomorrow’s Cabinet!” he declared.
Acknowledging the deep distress paper leaks cause students and their families, PM Modi recalled that the Union government had taken multiple measures over the past two-and-a-half months, leading to the arrest and imprisonment of those responsible.
“I am aware that paper leaks cause immense distress to students and their parents,” he said.
He underlined that all resources had been mobilised to ensure examinations for nearly 22 lakh students were conducted without delay.
Results were declared on July 19, and the government was already receiving reports of joy among successful candidates across the country.
Emphasising that the government would not rest on its laurels, the Prime Minister said he had personally worked to prepare a strong proposal for fast-track courts and harsh punishments for examination malpractices.
“This matter is likely to be discussed in the Cabinet tomorrow, and the proposal will be finalised after incorporating suggestions from Cabinet colleagues,” he said.
“As the second week of the Parliamentary session begins on Monday, we will strive to have the Bill passed in the House as quickly as possible.”
Sources indicated the proposed legislation would provide for harsher penalties, time-bound trials through special fast-track courts, and greater accountability for institutions and individuals involved in such crimes.
The move is being seen as a decisive step to deter future leaks and restore confidence among millions of aspirants.
Even as the anti-paper leak proposal headed to the Cabinet, another high-profile national issue reached a resolution in the capital.
Sonam Wangchuk ended his 26-day hunger strike on Friday in the presence of Union Ministers J.P. Nadda and Jitendra Singh, doctors, family members and supporters.
Wangchuk, who had been fasting to demand greater autonomy and environmental safeguards for Ladakh, expressed gratitude as he broke his fast.
“So with that being fulfilled, I am grateful, and I’ll be happy to break my fast. Thank you,” he said, before sipping liquid offered by medical staff and accepting a ceremonial scarf.
He acknowledged the presence of leaders from the Apex Body of Ladakh and the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA), thanking them for travelling from Ladakh to support him. Family members blessed him as he sat upright with assistance, while doctors confirmed his condition was stable.
In a post on X, Wangchuk wrote: “Just now in the presence of Union Ministers JP Nadda & Dr. Jitendra Singh and the senior leaders of Apex Body of Leh Ladakh I finally broke my fast after 26 days.
Earlier 65 members of parliament from different political parties had visited or signed letters urging me to break the fast.
This was done after a long negotiation on various conditions and in view of possible violence in the country. I will explain the conditions in detail in a separate video very soon. Meanwhile I urge you all to stay very vigilant about not allowing violence of any kind anywhere.”
The activist also thanked his family, describing them as a source of strength throughout the prolonged fast.
The conclusion of the fast followed weeks of appeals from political leaders and civil society groups amid growing concern over Wangchuk’s health and the risk of unrest.
Together, the two developments on Friday highlighted the government’s simultaneous push to restore public trust in the examination system and to defuse a prolonged agitation in Ladakh through dialogue, even as both issues continue to demand careful follow-through in the coming days. (Agencies)
