India extends internet shutdown amid youth protests

After 26 days, the hunger strike is over for Sonam Wangchuk. In a post on social media, the Indian activist announced he had ended his fast after a long negotiation on various conditions and in view of possible violence in the country. The government has given us a written assurance that no legal action, including the filing of a first information report, will be taken against students and young people who've been peacefully protesting. They also assured us that parliaments would hold a full debate on the issue and on improving accountability in the education and examination system. The 59-year-old had been on hunger strike in solidarity with India's youth-led cockroach party, which is demanding the resignation of the education minister. After medical college entrance test papers were leaked, with millions forced to retake the gruelling exam. Wangchuk's announcement came shortly after Prime Minister Narendra Modi released a video address on X, saying he will bring a tougher law to check paper leaks. After incorporating the suggestions of my cabinet colleagues, the draft will be given its final shape. With the second session of parliament beginning on Monday, we will make every effort to have the bill introduced and passed by the house at the earliest. The protest movement has evolved to include concerns over unemployment, opportunities for young people and what critics brand as Modi's increasingly authoritarian style of governance.