Sonam Wangchuk Continues Hunger Strike at Jantar Mantar, Health Concerns Grow as Calls for Dialogue Intensify
Environmentalist and education reformer Sonam Wangchuk has continued his indefinite hunger strike at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar, with his protest entering its nineteenth day. The fast, which began on June 28, has become the focal point of a growing nationwide campaign demanding accountability over alleged examination paper leaks, reforms to India’s examination system, and the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.
Medical updates released by doctors attending Wangchuk indicate that he has lost more than nine kilograms during the prolonged fast and remains under continuous medical supervision. While his physical condition has weakened considerably, doctors have stated that he remains mentally alert. Wangchuk himself acknowledged that he is “not in good shape,” but urged supporters not to focus on his health alone and instead participate in the planned “Chalo Sansad” march scheduled for July 20.
The protest has drawn increasing political and public attention over the past several days. Leaders from multiple Opposition parties have visited Jantar Mantar to express solidarity, while several public personalities and civil society groups have appealed to the Central Government to initiate direct dialogue with the veteran activist before his health deteriorates further. Prominent voices from the entertainment industry have also expressed concern, amplifying the campaign on social media.
A significant legal development also emerged this week when the Delhi High Court directed authorities to closely monitor Wangchuk’s medical condition and intervene if doctors consider it medically necessary. The court stopped short of ordering any forced medical treatment, instead leaving future decisions to medical experts based on his health status. The judicial intervention marks the first formal court involvement in the ongoing protest.
Wangchuk joined the hunger strike in solidarity with the youth-led Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), a movement that has mobilised students and young people across India following allegations of repeated examination paper leaks and systemic failures in competitive recruitment and entrance examinations. Protesters argue that repeated irregularities have undermined public trust in the country’s education system and have demanded comprehensive reforms to ensure transparency and accountability.
Despite growing public pressure, the Central Government has not formally engaged with the protest leaders or announced any negotiations regarding their principal demands. Organisers have reiterated that the movement will remain peaceful and democratic, with thousands of supporters expected to participate in the planned march towards Parliament on July 20 if no breakthrough is achieved beforehand.
The hunger strike has once again placed Sonam Wangchuk—widely recognised for his work in sustainable education, environmental conservation and grassroots innovation—at the centre of a national movement. As concern over his deteriorating health mounts, attention is now focused on whether the government will open channels of dialogue before the protest reaches a more critical stage.
