Sonam Wangchuk appears weakened on the 15th day of protest movement hunger strike

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.

Abidjit Dipke, founder of the Cockroach Janata Party, reported on Saturday that Sonam Wangchuk, who has been on a hunger strike for six days demanding the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, has lost over five kilograms.

Medical Examination Results

In a video address, Dipke stated that Wangchuk underwent a medical examination which showed a further decrease in his blood pressure and blood sugar levels.

Dipke appealed to the government to take action against Dharmendra Pradhan, adding that Sonam Wangchuk announced he would continue the hunger strike until the government takes action against this minister.

Calls for Protest Support

Furthermore, Dipke urged citizens to visit Janthar Mantar to support Wangchuk. He emphasized that even if people cannot do much, they can show solidarity with Sonam Sar, as he is risking his life for students, and the least they can do is be with him at Janthar Mantar.

Development of the Protest Action

The protest reached its fourteenth day after receiving support from several political leaders and civil society representatives last week. Those who supported it included CPI(M) General Secretary M A Baby, senior CPI(M) leader Brinda Karat, CPI General Secretary D Raja, CPI(ML) Liberation General Secretary Dipankar Bhattacharya, social activist Yogendra Yadav, Supreme Court lawyer Prashant Bhushan, CPI leader Annie Raja, transparency activist Anjali Bhardwaj, RTI activist Nikhil Dey, and TMC MP Sagarika Ghose.

The CJP action began on June 20 due to alleged irregularities in the examination system, including NEET. Protesters continue to demand the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. Dipke also noted that this campaign will raise other issues related to accountability, including electoral matters such as Special Intensive Review (SIR) of electoral lists.

It is also worth noting that six students associated with the left-leaning All India Students' Association (AISA) continued their indefinite hunger strike from a separate tribune at the protest site.