Climate activist and innovator Sonam Wangchuk has appealed to supporters to participate in the proposed Parliament march on July 20, describing the ongoing campaign as India’s “second freedom movement” in a handwritten message shared from Safdarjung Hospital.
Wangchuk, who has been on an indefinite hunger strike for 22 days, is currently admitted to the hospital after being shifted from Delhi’s Jantar Mantar following concerns over his health.
Wangchuk shares handwritten message from hospital
In a note shared by his wife on social media, Wangchuk described his stay at Safdarjung Hospital as an “illegal detention” and urged people to continue supporting the movement.
“The second movement for independence; India free from fear, India free from injustice.”
The activist called on citizens to stand behind the campaign, which seeks reforms in the education system and accountability over alleged examination irregularities.
Protest centred on education reforms
Wangchuk joined the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP)-led protest at Jantar Mantar, where demonstrators have been demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over alleged irregularities in competitive examinations, including the NEET-UG paper leak.
The protest has gained support from students and activists, with organisers maintaining that the movement is aimed at ensuring transparency and accountability in India’s education system.
Hospitalisation sparks controversy
On Saturday, Delhi Police shifted Wangchuk to Safdarjung Hospital after the Delhi High Court directed authorities to closely monitor his deteriorating health during the prolonged hunger strike.
Police said the decision was taken on medical advice and in compliance with the High Court’s directions.
However, CJP leaders disputed the official version, alleging that Wangchuk was forcibly removed from the protest site. Party founder Abhijeet Dipke claimed the activist was taken away without consent and has since begun his own indefinite hunger strike.
Parliament march planned despite police warning
The Cockroach Janta Party has called for a march to Parliament on July 20, coinciding with the start of the Monsoon Session of Parliament.
Organisers have urged students and supporters from across the country to participate in the demonstration.
Meanwhile, Delhi Police has stated that protesters will not be permitted to march towards the Parliament complex, describing such a procession as unauthorised under existing security arrangements.
The proposed march is expected to remain a focal point of the ongoing protest as demonstrators continue to press for education reforms and action over alleged examination irregularities.
