Phelan Chatterjee

Education activist Sonam Wangchuk says youth-led protests over exam-paper leaks and unemployment have significantly weakened Narendra Modi’s government and increased young Indians’ confidence in collective action. Wangchuk’s 26-day hunger strike preceded Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan’s resignation, while the government responded with fast-track courts, examination-system reforms and compensation for affected families. Wangchuk argues that India’s exam-focused education system is poorly aligned with the job market and contributes to graduate unemployment. Despite reported police harassment and legal cases against protesters, he sees progress and warns that further government inaction could trigger broader protests. He remains committed to nonviolent resistance and says he does not plan to enter electoral politics.

Hong Kong police arrested five people accused of selling or displaying books considered seditious during raids on two independent bookshops. Authorities allege the material incited hatred toward the government, judiciary and law enforcement, with suspects facing up to seven years in prison if convicted. The targeted shops, including Have A Nice Stay and reportedly Greenfield Book Store, are known for carrying works on democracy and social issues. Rights groups, including Amnesty International, warned the actions reflect increasing self-censorship and uncertainty under national security laws as similar raids and arrests continue across the city.