Sonam Wangchuk's Hunger Strike: A Call for Change Amidst Deteriorating Health
Health Concerns for Activist Sonam Wangchuk
In New Delhi, climate activist and educator Sonam Wangchuk's health has significantly declined as he enters the 15th day of his indefinite hunger strike. Medical professionals have noted a concerning drop in his blood pressure and a total weight loss of 7.8 kg since the start of his fast.
The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) protest at Jantar Mantar, which addresses alleged irregularities in examinations, has now reached its 23rd day.
As per the latest health report from the organization, Wangchuk's blood pressure has fallen to 104/66 mm Hg, with his weight loss now totaling 7.8 kg.
The CJP has announced that various political figures and intellectuals are expected to visit the protest site to show their support for the movement.
Notable attendees include former Kerala ministers K K Shylaja, K N Balagopal, and P Rajeev, along with Samajwadi Party MP Pushpendra Saroj, who is anticipated to speak to the crowd.
The day's events will culminate in a public lecture by economist Jayati Ghosh, focusing on 'The Economics of Unemployment' and its effects on youth.
Members of the All India Students' Association (AISA), affiliated with CPI(ML) Liberation, including Neha, Manish, Deepak Kumar Verma, and Aameen, are also continuing their own indefinite hunger strike at the protest site.
On Saturday, Wangchuk emphasized the importance of individual responsibility, stating that he is merely an ordinary citizen and not a 'modern Gandhi' or a hero.
"Do not seek a hero in others; be the hero of your own life and fulfill your duties as a citizen," he expressed in a video shared on social media.
He also encouraged citizens to participate in a planned march to Parliament on July 20, urging them to unite in demanding that MPs address the issues surrounding the alleged examination irregularities.
The CJP is calling for the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and for Rs 1 crore in compensation for families of students who have tragically taken their own lives due to these alleged irregularities.
The protest initiated on June 20, with Wangchuk joining the movement on June 28 and commencing his indefinite hunger strike shortly thereafter.