From Potti Sriramulu to Sonam Wangchuk: Hunger strikes that changed India’s politics

The article explores the historical and political impact of hunger strikes in India, from Mahatma Gandhi's satyagraha to contemporary movements. It highlights how figures like Potti Sriramulu, Irom Sharmila, Anna Hazare, Medha Patkar, K. Chandrashekar Rao, G.D. Agrawal, and Sonam Wangchuk used this non-violent protest to influence state formation, challenge contentious laws like AFSPA, advocate for anti-corruption legislation, demand environmental justice, and seek constitutional safeguards for regions, thereby significantly shaping India's political landscape and public discourse.