New Delhi: Activist and educationist Sonam Wangchuk has said he will continue his indefinite hunger strike until July 20, when he plans to lead the Cockroach Janta Party’s (CJP) proposed “Sansad Chalo” march to Parliament. The activist said the success of the march would determine the outcome of the protest, even as concerns grow over his deteriorating health.
Wangchuk has been on an indefinite fast demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, alleging irregularities in the education system. His hunger strike entered its 20th day on Friday, while the CJP’s protest at Jantar Mantar reached its 28th day.
Vows to continue fast until July 20
Addressing supporters at Jantar Mantar, Wangchuk said he was determined to remain on the fast until the planned Parliament march.
“I will stay alive by any means until July 20 so that I can march to Parliament with all of you. And if our march doesn’t succeed on July 20, then I’ll come back as a ghost,” he said in a light-hearted remark while urging supporters to participate in large numbers.
July 20 marks the first day of the Monsoon Session of Parliament, when the protesters intend to submit their demands.
Calls for participation instead of sympathy
Wangchuk appealed to supporters to focus on strengthening the movement rather than urging him to end his fast.
He said the protest requires active public participation, particularly in the peaceful march to Parliament.
Earlier this week, he released a video message requesting people to join the July 20 mobilisation instead of asking him to discontinue the hunger strike.
According to Wangchuk, ending the fast without any response from the government would send the wrong message, and he continues to seek dialogue with the Centre while maintaining his demand for the education minister’s resignation.
Health remains under close monitoring
Doctors have expressed concern over Wangchuk’s health as the hunger strike enters its third week.
According to the latest medical update, his weight has reduced to 56.65 kg, reflecting a loss of more than 9 kg since the fast began, including 500 grams in the previous 24 hours.
Medical examinations recorded his blood pressure at 105/61 mmHg, blood sugar level at 80 mg/dL, and oxygen saturation at 97 per cent.
While doctors said he remains conscious and mentally alert, they have advised continuous medical monitoring due to the prolonged fast.
Delhi High Court directs monitoring
Wangchuk’s health has also become the subject of proceedings before the Delhi High Court.
The court has directed both the Centre and the Delhi government to monitor his condition daily and ensure that appropriate medical assistance is provided if his health worsens.
The Centre has informed the court that it will continue monitoring his condition.
Protest gains wider support
Over the past week, several politicians, writers, actors and members of civil society have visited Jantar Mantar to express solidarity with Wangchuk.
Many of them have appealed to him to end his hunger strike because of concerns over his health.
Despite these appeals, Wangchuk has maintained that the movement’s success depends on public participation rather than sympathy.
Hunger strike becomes the focus of the movement
Observers note that Wangchuk’s indefinite fast has significantly increased public attention on the CJP protest.
The movement initially began as a satirical campaign led by students but has since evolved into a broader public protest following Wangchuk’s participation.
His hunger strike has become the central focus of the agitation, drawing increased media attention and wider public engagement.
Supporters visiting Jantar Mantar are now rallying not only around the campaign’s demands but also around Wangchuk’s continued fast.
Conclusion
As the planned Parliament march approaches, Wangchuk remains committed to continuing his hunger strike despite growing health concerns. With the Monsoon Session set to begin on July 20, the mobilisation is expected to become the next major test for the ongoing protest movement.