New Delhi: Protests are currently underway at Jantar Mantar demanding the resignation of the Union Education Minister over irregularities in examinations. Today marks the 17th day of an indefinite hunger strike by educationist and environmental activist Sonam Wangchuk at Jantar Mantar in the national capital, and his health is steadily deteriorating.
There is widespread concern regarding the health of Sonam Wangchuk, who has been on a fast-unto-death for 17 days. Opposition political parties have also expressed concern over his worsening condition and are urging him to end the fast.
Earlier, Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal had asked him to call off the indefinite fast, and now SP chief Akhilesh Yadav has made a significant statement. Criticising the BJP government, he too has urged Sonam Wangchuk to end his hunger strike. Wangchuk has lost approximately 8.5 kg in weight since he began the fast.
Appeal by Akhilesh Yadav
Samajwadi Party chief and former UP CM Akhilesh Yadav appealed to Sonam Wangchuk on Tuesday to end his fast. He shared an emotional post on the social media platform X, urging Wangchuk to end his fast. He stated that his life is valuable not only to India but to the entire world.
He also launched a scathing attack on the BJP. In his post, he wrote, “It is our very humble request and polite appeal to Shri Sonam Wangchuk ji to break his fast. His life is invaluable to the entire world because it embodies an extraordinary commitment to humanity, the environment, and democracy.” He further added that the country needs people like Wangchuk, and his struggle serves as a unique source of inspiration for the protection of democracy and the environment.
BJP Government Termed ‘Principle-less’
The SP chief launched a strong attack on the BJP through his post. He stated that the government of Wangchuk is trying to awaken through his fast-unto-death is devoid of principles, corrupt, and insensitive. During this time, the speaker alleged that there is a complete disregard for anyone’s sacrifices or lives, with the authorities consumed by the arrogance of power and wealth. The post concluded by stating that Sonam Wangchuk’s invaluable resolve and moral strength serve as an inspiration to every true Indian. It also expressed the hope that Wangchuk would continue to stand as a beacon of light against negative forces in the ongoing struggle for democracy, the youth, and the environment.
Sonam Wangchuk’s Health Deteriorating
It has been reported that Sonam Wangchuk’s health is steadily declining while he remains on an indefinite hunger strike. According to the party, he has lost approximately 8.2 kilograms of weight over the course of the 16-day fast, and his blood glucose level has dropped to 67 mg/dL. The CJP maintains that the government must make a swift decision regarding the protesters’ demands.
Key Demands of the Protesters
For context, the CJP’s primary demand is the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, holding him morally accountable for the examination irregularities. They are also demanding compensation of ₹1 crore each for the families of students who allegedly committed suicide due to these exam-related issues. Furthermore, the organisation has announced plans for a peaceful march from Jantar Mantar to Parliament on July 20; consequently, all eyes are now fixed on July 20, 2026.
