Sonam Wangchuk's Hunger Strike: A Stand for Student Rights and Accountability

Sonam Wangchuk, the renowned educator and climate activist, has entered the 13th day of his hunger strike in New Delhi, advocating for student rights and demanding accountability from the government regarding alleged examination irregularities. As he continues to fast in support of the Cockroach Janta Party's protest, Wangchuk emphasizes the importance of peaceful demonstration and the need for government action to address pressing educational issues. With significant weight loss and declining health, he remains committed to his cause, urging the government to accept the resignation of the Union Education Minister to regain the trust of the youth. The protest, which began on June 20, has drawn attention to the tragic consequences of educational failures, including student suicides. Wangchuk's determination highlights the urgent need for reform in India's education system.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 10, 2026, 14:26 IST

Sonam Wangchuk Enters Day 13 of Hunger Strike

In New Delhi, educator and climate activist Sonam Wangchuk has reported that his hunger has reached a state of stability as he marks the 13th day of his indefinite fast. He emphasized that his constitutional rights should not be infringed upon by any attempts to remove him from the protest site.

Wangchuk is participating in the Cockroach Janta Party's (CJP) demonstration at Jantar Mantar, which is now in its 21st day. The protest calls for the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and seeks accountability regarding alleged irregularities in examinations.

Speaking to reporters, Wangchuk shared, "Today is the 13th day of my fast. I feel okay, and my hunger has stabilized. The initial days were challenging as my body adjusted to fasting. While I do feel some fatigue, overall, I am managing well."

He acknowledged that he has lost both muscle and fat during this extended fast but maintains a sense of energy.

"I've lost muscle along with fat, and my bones are becoming more visible, yet I still feel energetic," he stated.

When questioned about potential intervention from authorities if his health were to decline, Wangchuk asserted that he is at the protest site of his own volition and sees no reason for the administration to remove him.

"I don't understand why they would want to remove me. I am here voluntarily, and my life is not in danger. If they force me out, it would violate our rights," he explained.

Wangchuk emphasized the peaceful nature of their protest, stating, "The nation and the world are observing our democracy's condition. This is not a privilege; it is our right. We are entitled to peaceful protest under Article 19, and I trust that this right will be upheld."

He continues his fast to advocate for students demanding accountability regarding examination issues and to urge a swift resolution to matters concerning Ladakh.

"I stand here for the students, advocating for accountability in educational matters. The discussions regarding Ladakh have progressed, and it is time to finalize these issues. The Monsoon Session presents an excellent opportunity for this," he remarked.

Wangchuk also referenced the tragic student suicides linked to the cancellation of NEET-UG in May, stating that the protest aims to prevent such tragedies from recurring.

"As you may know, 20 students have taken their own lives. We must ensure that next year, this number does not increase to 40 or 80. We are here to avert such situations," he said.

He further suggested that accepting Pradhan's resignation before the Monsoon Session could help the government regain the trust of the youth.

"If they accept the education minister's resignation, they might regain popularity among young people. Currently, there is significant anger among the youth, which could politically harm them. They should act for their own benefit before Parliament reconvenes. If they do not, we will take further action," he warned.

CJP spokesperson Ashutosh Ranka reported that Wangchuk has lost approximately 7.5 kg since the start of his fast, with his blood sugar levels remaining consistently low.

"As time passes, his energy is diminishing. He is experiencing considerable weakness while walking and struggles to speak. The situation is deteriorating. Our medical team is monitoring him closely, and we hope the government will respond soon," Ranka stated.

Ranka reiterated the group's demands, which include Pradhan's resignation and a compensation of Rs 1 crore for the families of students who have died by suicide. He noted that the government has not engaged in dialogue with the protesters and that the CJP plans to proceed with a march to Parliament on July 20 if there is no response.

The CJP protest commenced on June 20, focusing on alleged examination irregularities. Wangchuk joined the movement on June 28 and has been on an indefinite fast since then. On Thursday, the group announced a peaceful march to Parliament on July 20, coinciding with the opening of the Monsoon Session, inviting students, parents, and citizens nationwide to participate.