Prominent Figures Urge Protesters to End Hunger Strike in Delhi

A group of prominent citizens, including renowned author Arundhati Roy and actor Naseeruddin Shah, has called on protesters at Delhi's Jantar Mantar to end their indefinite hunger strike. They expressed gratitude for the protesters' efforts while voicing concerns over their health. The appeal comes as the protest enters its 24th day, with climate activist Sonam Wangchuk losing significant weight during his fast. The citizens emphasized the importance of preserving health for the ongoing struggle and encouraged participation in an upcoming march to Parliament.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 14, 2026, 13:21 IST

Call to Action from Eminent Citizens

Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk receiving medical attention on Monday. (Photo:PTI)

New Delhi, Jul 14: A coalition of distinguished individuals, including author Arundhati Roy, actors Naseeruddin Shah and Ratna Pathak Shah, along with economist Jayati Ghosh, has urged the individuals on an indefinite hunger strike at Delhi's Jantar Mantar to conclude their fast.

In a joint statement released on Monday, they expressed their unwavering support for the protesters' demand for the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, while also voicing serious concerns regarding the deteriorating health of those involved.

"We commend your dedication, resolve, and bravery in leading this movement for students and youth nationwide," the statement emphasized.

They further implored the protesters to consider ending their fast, stating, "We kindly ask you to think about concluding this hunger strike for the sake of the longer and more challenging struggle that lies ahead. This fight is a marathon, not a sprint, and we need your strength and leadership in the days to come."

The signatories expressed apprehension that the government's alleged inaction regarding their demands could further jeopardize the health of those on hunger strike.

"We fear that their negligence in addressing your demands will only exacerbate the already precarious health conditions many of you are facing," they noted.

This appeal was made on the 24th day of the Cockroach Janta Party's protest at Jantar Mantar and the 16th day of educator and climate activist Sonam Wangchuk's indefinite hunger strike.

As per the organizers, Wangchuk has lost 8.2 kg since the start of his fast. His recent medical check-up indicated a blood pressure of 107/70 mmHg and a blood glucose level of 67 mg/dL.

AISA activist Deepak, who has been on a hunger strike since June 28, was hospitalized at RML Hospital on Monday due to health complications.

The statement also encouraged the residents of Delhi to join the CJP's planned march to Parliament on July 20, coinciding with the beginning of the monsoon session.

In addition to Roy, Shah, Ratna, and Ghosh, the statement was endorsed by academics Anuradha Chenoy, Nivedita Menon, Tanika Sarkar, and Aditya Nigam, filmmaker Sanjay Kak, activist Lalita Ramdas, Kavita Srivastava, feminist Madhu Bhushan, and cultural practitioner Arundhati Ghosh.

The CJP has been protesting at Jantar Mantar, demanding Pradhan's resignation over alleged discrepancies in the NEET examination. Wangchuk joined the protest on June 28 and has been on an indefinite fast since then. The organization has announced a march to Parliament on July 20.