Wangchuk Continues Hunger Strike On Day 7 As Health Deteriorates Rapidly

Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk continued his hunger strike at Jantar Mantar on Saturday, entering the seventh consecutive day of his protest, even as concerns intensified over his deteriorating health condition. Supporters and fellow activists have expressed alarm, with the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) claiming that Wangchuk has lost around five kilograms since beginning his fast.

The protest at Jantar Mantar, a designated site for public demonstrations in the national capital, has drawn attention to a range of demands raised by Wangchuk’s supporters. While the immediate focus of the agitation is his ongoing fast, the broader campaign has also highlighted alleged irregularities in major national entrance examinations, which the group claims have affected student trust in the system.

The CJP has escalated its political criticism alongside the protest, reiterating its demand for the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. The group has alleged administrative lapses in the handling of examination-related processes and has called for greater accountability from the Union government. According to CJP representatives, the protest reflects wider concerns among students and youth over fairness and transparency in competitive examinations.

Also Read: Sonam Wangchuk Invites Supporters To Observe One-Day Hunger Strike In Solidarity Across India

CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke posted on social media platform X that Wangchuk’s health was worsening with each passing day, urging authorities to respond more urgently to the situation. In his post, he questioned the government’s continued silence on the matter and asked why the minister had not been removed from office despite ongoing protests and allegations raised by demonstrators.

“Sonam Sir has lost 5 kg, and his health is deteriorating with each passing day. How much longer will the Prime Minister wait before sacking Dharmendra Pradhan?” Dipke wrote, amplifying the demand for ministerial resignation. His remarks have been widely shared among supporters of the protest, further intensifying the political dimension of the agitation.

While Wangchuk has reportedly welcomed a breakthrough in separate Centre–Ladakh discussions, his decision to continue the hunger strike at Jantar Mantar has underscored the multi-layered nature of his campaign. The activist has long been associated with environmental and educational reform movements, and his current protest is seen by supporters as part of a broader effort to draw attention to governance and policy concerns. The hunger strike has also prompted increased public and media attention due to Wangchuk’s worsening physical condition.

Supporters at the protest site have called for medical monitoring and urged authorities to engage in dialogue to prevent further health risks. However, no official statement has been issued by the government regarding his condition or the demands raised by the protest group. As the protest enters its second week, it continues to draw participants and onlookers at Jantar Mantar, with calls for resolution growing louder. The situation remains fluid, with both health concerns and political demands converging around the ongoing demonstration, placing additional pressure on authorities to respond.

Also Read: Sonam Wangchuk Joins CJP Protest, Starts Indefinite Fast Over Alleged Exam Irregularities