Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk has vowed to continue his hunger strike until July 20, despite his deteriorating health, as he demands the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over alleged examination irregularities. Wangchuk, whose hunger strike entered its 20th day, addressed supporters at the Jantar Mantar protest site, saying he would ‘stay alive till July 20 at any cost.’ His condition has been described as critical by doctors, who warned that his prolonged fast could lead to organ failure. Wangchuk has lost over 9 kg since beginning his hunger strike on June 28.
The Delhi High Court has ordered the Union and Delhi governments to ensure regular monitoring of Wangchuk’s health, with the court stating that the ‘life of any citizen is precious.’ The court’s decision came after Wangchuk’s health condition worsened on July 16, with doctors warning that his body was likely consuming muscles and his organs could be affected next. Wangchuk’s hunger strike has attracted widespread support, with politicians, celebrities, and activists rallying behind him. Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut expressed concern over Wangchuk’s health, urging the High Court to take cognizance of the matter and alleging that the government was being ‘insensitive’ to the issue.
The Congress has also extended its support to Wangchuk, with party general secretary K C Venugopal saying that the party shares his ‘anguish and outrage’ over the alleged lack of accountability within the Narendra Modi government for the ‘collapse of the examination system.’ The Congress appealed to Wangchuk to end his hunger strike on July 16, citing concerns over his health. Other politicians, including Maharashtra’s Opposition figures and Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, have also come out in support of Wangchuk, demanding that the Centre engage with him and sack Pradhan. The Delhi High Court has agreed to hear a PIL against the alleged ‘intrusive surveillance’ by police of Cockroach Janta Party protesters at Jantar Mantar on July 20.
The plea has challenged the installation and operation of a permanent surveillance tower and systematic photography and videography of protesters by the Delhi Police. Wangchuk’s protest has sparked a wider debate about the need for reforms in the country’s examination system, with many calling for greater accountability and transparency. As Wangchuk’s health continues to deteriorate, his supporters are holding out hope that the government will take action to address his demands and prevent a tragic outcome.
