Goa, July 25 -- Activist Sonam Wangchuk has clarified why he ended his 26-day hunger strike without insisting on the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, saying his priority was to protect protesting students and secure meaningful assurances from the government.

Responding to criticism that he had softened his stand during negotiations with the Centre, Wangchuk said the objective of the talks was to prevent further confrontation and safeguard students participating in the protests over alleged examination paper leaks. He stressed that the demand for the minister's resignation should not overshadow the broader goal of education reforms and accountability.

Wangchuk also rejected allegations that he had struck a deal...