Sonam Wangchuk rejects 'modern Gandhi' label during Delhi protest fast

Climate activist and educator Sonam Wangchuk stated on Friday that his hunger has stabilized after thirteen days of abstaining from food. He also emphasized that his constitutional right to peaceful protest should not be violated by attempts to remove him from the protest site.

Details of the Fast and Well-being

Wangchuk is undertaking an indefinite fast at Jantkar Mantar in support of the protest by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP). This party demands the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan due to alleged irregularities in examinations. The protest entered its twenty-first day on Friday.

Speaking to journalists, Wangchuk noted that he is managing the prolonged fast. He reported feeling normal on the thirteenth day, and his appetite has stabilized. He admitted that the first few days are difficult due to the body's adaptation to fasting, and although he feels some fatigue, he is generally fine.

Physical Condition and Rights

He shared that he has lost both fat and muscle mass but remains energetic. Wangchuk added that his bones are beginning to show, but he continues to feel vigorous. When asked about possible government intervention if his health deteriorates, he insisted that he is participating in the protest voluntarily and there is no basis for his removal.

He stressed that any removal would be a violation of his rights. Wangchuk reminded that they are conducting a peaceful protest, and the state of democracy and the world is under close scrutiny. He stated that the right to peaceful protest is enshrined in Article 19, and he hopes it will be respected.

Demands and Political Goals

Wangchuk continued his fast in support of students demanding accountability regarding education. He also called on the Centre to resolve pending issues concerning Ladakh, noting that the Monsoon Session is an appropriate time for a final decision on these matters.

Referring to student suicides linked to the cancellation of the NEET-UG exam in May, Wangchuk explained that the goal of the protest is to prevent such tragedies in the future. He mentioned that 20 students committed suicide, and he fears the number could rise to 40 or 80 next year.

He also suggested that accepting the resignation of the Education Minister would help the government restore youth trust. Wangchuk believes that the current anger among young people could have negative political consequences, and therefore, the resignation must occur before Parliament convenes.

CJP Representatives' Stance

CJP representative Ashutosh Ranka reported that Wangchuk has lost about 7.5 kg since the start of the fast, and that his blood sugar levels have remained consistently low. However, Ranka also noted that Wangchuk's energy is declining over time, and he is experiencing significant weakness while walking and difficulty speaking, which is a worsening situation. The CJP medical team is monitoring him, and they hope for a prompt response from the government.

Sonam Wangchuk's hunger strike at Jantar Mantar in Delhi entered its ninth day on Monday, raising renewed concerns among his supporters regarding his health condition.

Protest Updates

The latest information was posted by Abhijit Dipke, founder of the 'Cockroach Janta Party' (CJP), who shared a message on X stating: 'Ninth day of the hunger strike @Wangchuk66'. This protest aims to demand accountability within India's education system and action against Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.

Health Status and Support

The day before, marking the eighth day of fasting, Wangchuk shared a health update on X, writing: 'Still alive.' He reported that about 7,000 people gathered at Jantar Mantar during the day, and leaders of various social and political movements expressed their support for the ongoing action.

In the same post, Wangchuk suggested that the growing number of online critics indicates the movement's effectiveness. He wrote that 'an obvious indicator of how effective this movement is can be seen in the number of trolls in the comments below. Over these years, I have seen that this number is directly proportional to the influence. I will be so sad and depressed the day they disappear. Thank you, my success counter, for your work.'

Government Reaction

In recent days, the hunger strike has received support from opposition leaders, activists, and civil society members, and demonstrators continue to gather at Jantar Mantar in solidarity with Wangchuk's demands. As of now, the Union government has not provided an official response to either Wangchuk's latest remarks or the ongoing hunger strike.

Abidjit Dipke, founder of the Cockroach Janata Party, provided an update on the health of climate activist Sonam Wangchuk. He noted that Wangchuk has lost two kilograms.

Health Update

This message was posted on the social network X. The hunger strike is now in its fourth day, and supporters are expressing concern over the activist's deteriorating condition. In his post, Dipke wrote: 'Good morning from Janthar Mantar. Day four. Medical update on @Wangchuk66: Sonam sir has lost 2 kg since starting the fast. His blood pressure is constantly dropping.'

Reasons for the Protest

Despite physical exhaustion, Wangchuk continued his protest, drawing supporters, activists, and citizens to Janthar Mantar. Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk began an indefinite hunger strike at Janthar Mantar on Sunday in support of the CJP protest, which demands the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan due to alleged irregularities in conducting examinations.

Scale of the CJP Action

On Sunday, hundreds of protesters, mainly students and youth, gathered at Janthar Mantar when Sonam Wangchuk began his indefinite hunger strike. Several farmers' leaders also joined the demonstration, initiating it with a two-minute moment of silence.

Demands of the CJP Party

The Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) started its protest at Janthar Mantar on June 20, demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan amid allegations of examination irregularities. During the protest, Abidjit Dipke stated that this issue goes beyond a single exam and reflects deeper concerns regarding transparency, accountability, and public trust in the education system. The action has received support from students, farmers, and civil society members participating in rallies at Janthar Mantar.