Sonam Wangchuk, the educator and climate activist known for his outspoken stance on education reforms, was admitted to a hospital on Saturday after his health deteriorated on the 21st day of his hunger strike. The protest, held at Jantar Mantar in Delhi, aims to demand accountability from the government over alleged irregularities in the NEET examination system. Delhi Police confirmed the transfer, citing medical advice and court orders as reasons for the hospitalization.
Why Sonam Wangchuk Began His Hunger Strike
Wangchuk joined the ongoing protest organized by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) on June 28. The movement started on June 20, focusing on the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, a judicial probe into the NEET exam scams, and broader reforms in the examination process. Wangchuk’s hunger strike is indefinite, signaling his deep commitment to the cause and his demand for government accountability.
In a video message shared at the end of the 20th day of fasting, Wangchuk revealed he had lost nearly 20 percent of his body weight. Despite this severe physical toll, he remained determined, emphasizing the importance of public participation in the movement. He urged supporters to join the planned march to Parliament on July 20, describing mass involvement as the movement’s greatest strength.
Key Facts About the Protest and Wangchuk’s Condition
- Wangchuk has been fasting since June 28, marking over three weeks without food.
- He has lost about 20 percent of his body weight, including fat and muscle mass.
- The protest demands the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over alleged NEET exam irregularities.
- The Cockroach Janta Party has been holding the protest at Jantar Mantar since June 20.
- Delhi Police moved Wangchuk to the hospital following medical advice and a High Court order.
- The protestors faced some obstruction during the transfer, but police maintained restraint and ensured safety.
- Wangchuk highlighted that governments have fallen in India before due to public protests, including over onion prices, drawing a parallel to the current movement.
- He called for a large turnout at the July 20 "Chalo Sansad" march to demonstrate public support.
Why Wangchuk’s Hunger Strike Resonates Nationally
Wangchuk’s protest taps into a broader frustration with the education system and government accountability. By comparing the movement to past protests that led to political upheaval—such as those triggered by soaring onion prices—he underscores the potential power of collective action. His message challenges the public and authorities to prioritize students’ futures and educational integrity over political convenience.
The hunger strike also raises awareness about the pressures and challenges faced by students in India’s competitive exam environment. With over 20 student suicides reported this year linked to academic stress, Wangchuk’s call for accountability strikes a chord with many families and educators.
His hospitalization marks a critical moment in the protest, highlighting the physical risks activists take to demand change. The police have appealed to protesters to end their agitation peacefully, but Wangchuk’s supporters remain committed to continuing their push for reforms and transparency.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why is Sonam Wangchuk on a hunger strike?
A: He is protesting alleged irregularities in the NEET examination and demanding the resignation of the Union Education Minister and a judicial probe into exam scams.
Q: How long has Wangchuk been fasting?
A: He has been on an indefinite hunger strike since June 28, which lasted 21 days before he was hospitalized.
Q: What are the protestors demanding?
A: The protestors want the Education Minister to resign, a judicial investigation into NEET exam irregularities, and broader reforms in the examination system.
