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As Sonam Wangchuk’s indefinite hunger strike enters its 19th day, growing health concerns and political appeals have put the spotlight on his protest. Here's everything you need to know.
Why Sonam Wangchuk Is On Hunger Strike?
The 59-year-old engineer, climate activist, and education reformer from Ladakh started his indefinite fast on June 28, participating in a campaign organized by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), a satirical youth movement calling for the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan due to the NEET-UG medical entrance exam question paper leak.
The CJP states they are also seeking increased accountability and changes in India’s examination system, along with $116,000 in compensation for families of students who reportedly died by suicide due to examination-related stress. Youth have been infuriated by document leaks, resulting in the cancellation of a medical college exam taken by 2.3 million applicants.
It ultimately took place last month. Merely 5 percent to 6 percent of students who take the exam, referred to as the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test, obtain positions in medical colleges.
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Sonam Wangchuk Enters 19th Day Of Hunger Strike: Health Update
Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk's condition has worsened considerably as his ongoing hunger strike at Jantar Mantar entered its 19th day on Thursday. His treating doctor, Dr. Satish Lamba, cautioned about potential multi-organ issues if the fast persists.
Wangchuk has lost more than 9 kilograms, bringing his weight down to 56.9 kg. Healthcare personnel are consistently observing his vital signs. Today, his blood glucose level is 80 mg/dL, and his heart rate is 72 beats per minute. His blood pressure measurements are 105/61 mmHg when supine and 101/65 mmHg when seated.
Political Leaders Urges Wangchuk To End Hunger Strike
The demonstration has garnered political backing, as Congress MP Shashi Tharoor on Wednesday made a heartfelt plea to Wangchuk to cease his hunger strike, stating it has already "stirred the conscience of the nation" and that the battle for students’ concerns should now transition to Parliament.
On Tuesday, Trinamool Congress leader Mamata Banerjee, Samajwadi Party head Akhilesh Yadav, Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Uddhav Thackeray, and AAP national convenor Arvind Kejriwal urged Wangchuk to end his fast, while actress Zeenat Aman called on the government to start discussions.
Ex-Gujarat chief minister Shankersinh Vaghela and actress Swara Bhaskar also attended the demonstration at Jantar Mantar to show their support.
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Delhi High Court Hearing On Thursday
The Delhi High Court announced that it will hear a public interest litigation (PIL) on 16 July (Thursday) requesting immediate medical assistance for climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, who is currently on an indefinite hunger strike at Jantar Mantar.
Labeling the issue as 'urgent', a division bench of Chief Justice Devendra Kumar Upadhyaya and Justice Tejas Karia has requested the positions of the Central and Delhi governments by today.
As Sonam Wangchuk’s health continues to deteriorate, calls for dialogue and urgent medical intervention are growing. The upcoming Delhi High Court hearing could play a key role in deciding the next course of action.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Ans: Sonam Wangchuk is on an indefinite hunger strike demanding greater accountability over the NEET-UG paper leak, reforms in India's examination system, and support for affected students and their families.
Ans: As of now, Sonam Wangchuk’s hunger strike has entered its 19th day.
Ans: Doctors say Wangchuk has lost over 9 kg during the fast and have warned that continuing the strike could lead to serious health complications, including multi-organ issues.
Ans: Several leaders, including Shashi Tharoor, Mamata Banerjee, Akhilesh Yadav, Uddhav Thackeray, and Arvind Kejriwal, have urged him to end his hunger strike.
Ans: The Delhi High Court is hearing a PIL seeking immediate medical assistance for Sonam Wangchuk during his ongoing hunger strike at Jantar Mantar.
