New Delhi, July 17: Climate activist and education reform advocate Sonam Wangchuk has reaffirmed his determination to continue his indefinite hunger strike until July 20, despite doctors warning that his health has entered a dangerous stage. As his fast reached its 20th day, Wangchuk appealed to citizens across the country to participate in the planned Parliament march, describing it as a crucial moment for the movement seeking accountability over alleged examination irregularities.
The larger protest led by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) completed 28 days at Jantar Mantar, where students, activists, and civil society members have continued demonstrations demanding reforms in the country’s examination system and greater accountability from the Union government.
Wangchuk Calls for Peaceful Democratic Participation
Speaking before supporters gathered at the protest venue, Wangchuk admitted that prolonged fasting had taken a visible toll on his physical health but insisted that his determination remained stronger than ever.
He encouraged demonstrators to channel their energy toward the peaceful march scheduled for July 20, saying the event would represent the voices of thousands of students seeking justice.
In an emotional appeal, Wangchuk remarked that he was committed to remaining alive until the day of the march regardless of his deteriorating health. He also used humor to motivate supporters, joking that he would return “as a ghost” if people failed to ensure a successful mobilisation.
The comments drew loud applause from protesters, many of whom have remained at the demonstration site since the agitation began.
Doctors Warn of Serious Medical Risks
Medical professionals monitoring Wangchuk’s health have expressed growing concern over the effects of the prolonged fast.
According to the attending doctors, the activist has entered a medically critical stage where continued fasting could significantly increase the risk of complications, including possible organ damage. They cautioned that the coming days would require constant observation as prolonged starvation can rapidly affect vital body functions.
Despite repeated medical advice, Wangchuk has maintained that ending the hunger strike without any response from the government would undermine the purpose of the movement.
He reiterated that the immediate priority is ensuring widespread participation in the July 20 demonstration rather than focusing solely on his personal condition.
Delhi High Court Directs Daily Health Monitoring
The issue has also reached the judiciary, with the Delhi High Court directing authorities to closely monitor Wangchuk’s medical condition.
The court instructed officials to conduct regular health assessments and ensure immediate medical assistance if his physical condition deteriorates further. The direction reflects growing public concern over the activist’s health while balancing his right to continue a peaceful democratic protest.
Authorities have reportedly been asked to maintain regular communication with medical teams stationed at the protest site.
Student Protesters Also Face Health Challenges
Alongside Wangchuk, several student activists participating in indefinite hunger strikes have reportedly experienced severe health complications.
The All India Students’ Association (AISA) stated that three of its members—Neha, Manish, and Aameen—are facing worsening medical conditions due to prolonged fasting.
According to the student organisation:
One protester is reportedly facing dehydration severe enough to raise concerns about hypovolemic shock.
Another participant’s blood sugar level has reportedly fallen to a critically low level requiring close observation.
A third student has experienced substantial weight loss after several days without food.
Despite these health concerns, AISA stated that the students remain committed to standing alongside Wangchuk until the government’s response addresses their demands.
Demands Driving the Protest
The protest movement centres on allegations of irregularities in competitive examinations conducted across the country.
The Cockroach Janta Party has outlined several key demands, including:
Resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan
Independent investigation into alleged examination irregularities
Stronger safeguards to ensure transparency in recruitment and entrance examinations
Compensation of ₹1 crore for families of students who allegedly died by suicide following examination-related controversies
Organisers argue that repeated controversies involving competitive examinations have damaged public confidence and caused severe emotional distress among students preparing for government jobs and higher education opportunities.
July 20 March Seen as Turning Point
Protest organisers believe the planned march to Parliament will be the defining event of the campaign.
The demonstration coincides with the opening day of the Monsoon Session of Parliament, a timing intended to bring the issue directly before lawmakers.
Organisers have repeatedly appealed for the march to remain peaceful and disciplined, urging participants to demonstrate through democratic means while highlighting the concerns of students and families affected by examination controversies.
Preparations for the march have intensified as volunteers coordinate logistics and mobilise supporters from various states.
Movement Gains National Attention
Since beginning on June 20, the protest has steadily attracted attention from students, education activists, and civil society organisations across India.
Sonam Wangchuk joined the agitation on June 28 and has remained on an indefinite fast ever since, becoming the symbolic face of the movement.
His participation has significantly increased public visibility for the campaign, drawing national debate over examination reforms, student welfare, and government accountability.
As July 20 approaches, both supporters and authorities are closely watching developments. While medical experts continue to caution about the serious health risks associated with prolonged fasting, organisers remain focused on making the Parliament march a peaceful demonstration aimed at amplifying student concerns before the nation’s lawmakers.