Sonam Wangchuk's Hunger Strike Gains Support from Bollywood Stars

Sonam Wangchuk, a Ladakhi activist, has been on a hunger strike for 17 days in New Delhi, protesting educational irregularities and demanding the resignation of the Union Education Minister. His cause has garnered significant support from Bollywood celebrities, including Swara Bhasker, who visited the protest site to show solidarity. Concerns for Wangchuk's health have been raised as he continues his strike, with various actors urging him to prioritize his well-being. This article explores the ongoing protest and the backing from the film industry.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 14, 2026, 22:12 IST

Activist Sonam Wangchuk Protests in New Delhi

Sonam Wangchuk, a prominent activist and founder of the Students' Educational and Cultural Movement of Ladakh (SECMOL), has been on an indefinite hunger strike for 17 days at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi. He is protesting against recent irregularities in education and is calling for the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. On July 14, several Bollywood figures expressed their support for Wangchuk, with actress Swara Bhasker visiting the protest site to show her solidarity. She also shared her appreciation on Instagram.

Swara Bhasker Visits Wangchuk's Protest

Swara Bhasker supports Sonam Wangchuk at Jantar Mantar

The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) posted on social media, featuring images of Swara at the protest. They captioned it: 'Unapologetic & fearless actress Swara Bhaskar joins the protest at Jantar Mantar!' Swara later shared these images on her Instagram Stories, expressing gratitude to CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke, stating, 'Thank you for fighting for the future of all of our children.' She also acknowledged Wangchuk's efforts, saying, 'The indefatigable Sonam Wangchuk sir is fighting for your children's future. All my solidarity and gratitude.'

Concerns for Wangchuk's health have surfaced online, particularly after Dipke revealed that the activist is experiencing muscle loss and pain due to the hunger strike.

Bollywood Celebrities Express Concern for Wangchuk

Omi Vaidya, Zeenat Aman, Naseeruddin Shah and more share concern for Wangchuk

Indian-American actor Omi Vaidya was among the first to voice his worries about Wangchuk's deteriorating condition. He shared a video highlighting Wangchuk's connection to his film 3 Idiots and urged fans to support the activist, stating, 'He stood up for students and for change. Today, he needs our support.'

Veteran actress Zeenat Aman also raised awareness about Wangchuk's situation, calling on the government to engage in peaceful dialogue with him. Fellow actors Naseeruddin Shah and Ratna Pathak Shah encouraged Wangchuk to prioritize his health and end the hunger strike. They, along with other Indian personalities, released a statement urging him to call off the strike, emphasizing, 'This battle is a marathon, not a sprint, and we need you, your strength and leadership in the days to come.' Other celebrities like Abhay Deol, Prakash Raj, Shreya Dhanwanthary, Rubina Dilaik, Devoleena Bhattacharjee, and Kunickaa Sadanand also voiced their support for Wangchuk, encouraging their followers to learn more about his condition.