Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk continued his indefinite hunger strike on Wednesday, entering its 18th day, as concerns over his deteriorating health intensified and support poured in from political leaders, actors and student groups across the country.
The protest, organised alongside the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), has now entered its 26th day, with demonstrators demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and accountability over alleged irregularities in the NEET (UG) 2026 and other examinations.
Health Concerns Deepen
CJP founder Abhijit Dipke, who has been providing daily health updates, said Wangchuk has lost more than 8.4 kilograms since beginning his fast on June 28. According to Dipke, the activist has started losing muscle mass and continues to endure severe physical discomfort.
Sharing details of Wangchuk’s condition, Dipke said the activist’s blood pressure was recorded at 109/70 mm Hg on Tuesday.
Despite repeated appeals to end the fast, Wangchuk has remained firm in his stand.
“Don’t ask me to end my fast. Ask the government why it refuses to even have a dialogue,” Wangchuk told Dipke.
Support Continues to Grow
Political leaders from across party lines have urged Wangchuk to end his hunger strike while expressing solidarity with the movement.
Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav appealed to the activist to call off the fast, describing his life as invaluable to society. Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray, TMC MP Mahua Moitra, and AAP national convener Arvind Kejriwal have also voiced support for the protest while urging Wangchuk to prioritise his health.
Kejriwal announced that he would visit the protest site at Jantar Mantar on July 16 to extend his support.
Film Personalities Join the Campaign
Several actors have also publicly backed Wangchuk’s protest.
Actor Swara Bhaskar visited Jantar Mantar and expressed solidarity with the movement, while Rubina Dilaik appealed for dialogue between the government and the activist.
Veteran actor Zeenat Aman urged authorities to engage in peaceful discussions, saying democratic protests should be met with dialogue rather than silence.
Actor Omi Vaidya, known for portraying “Chatur” in 3 Idiots, also shared a video message expressing concern over Wangchuk’s health and appealed for greater public attention to the ongoing protest.
Students Continue Parallel Fast
Student activists have continued a parallel hunger strike alongside Wangchuk. According to organisers, at least four members of the All India Students Association (AISA) are participating, with one protester reportedly hospitalised earlier this week after suffering hypovolemic shock.
The protesters are demanding an independent inquiry into alleged examination irregularities, the resignation of the Union education minister and ₹1 crore compensation for the families of students who allegedly died by suicide following examination-related issues.
Parliament March Planned
The CJP has announced a peaceful march to Parliament on July 20, coinciding with the start of the Monsoon Session. Organisers say the march will reiterate demands for accountability, reforms in the examination system and discussions with the government.
As Wangchuk’s fast enters its third week, pressure continues to mount on authorities to initiate dialogue, while concerns over the activist’s health remain at the centre of the ongoing protest.
