Why Activist Sonam Wangchuk Refuses to End His Hunger Strike Amid Political Pressure
Sonam Wangchuk's Hunger Strike Continues
New Delhi: Activist Sonam Wangchuk has decided to continue his indefinite hunger strike, despite numerous appeals from political figures and supporters. He believes that ending his fast without any governmental response would convey a misleading message.
Wangchuk expressed, "If I break my fast, what message does that send? It would imply that the government is not held accountable. Protesters come and go..." He questioned what would truly change if he were to stop his fast.
He encouraged the public to actively support the Cockroach Janta Party's planned Parliament march on July 20, emphasizing that students from schools and colleges should engage in this significant lesson in political science and democracy.
In a video message released late Wednesday night, marking the 18th day of his hunger strike, Wangchuk stated, "I have received countless messages urging me to end my fast. Many senior politicians have approached me with care and concern."
Some individuals have even sought legal intervention to compel him to eat, he noted.
To address worries about his health, Wangchuk reassured that his medical evaluations thus far have shown no immediate threats.
"My health is not critical enough to suggest I will perish in a few days. Numerous medical tests have been conducted, and the results are quite normal for someone fasting for 18 days. An ECG was performed, and the results are satisfactory. I can sustain this for several more days," he stated.
"While I do feel weakness and my muscles are deteriorating, my heart and core remain strong," he added.
Rather than asking him to cease his fast, Wangchuk called on supporters to join the CJP's "Chalo Sansad" march on July 20, to send a clear message to the government.
"I urge all educational institutions to recognize July 20 as a day of experiential learning under the National Education Policy. Students will have the opportunity to witness and engage in a genuine lesson in political science and democracy," he remarked.
He encouraged individuals to register for the march via the campaign's website or through a missed call initiative.
"Join us in thousands on July 20. Together, we will present this issue to Parliament. Only then will I feel it is in the right hands," Wangchuk concluded.
The Cockroach Janta Party has been protesting at Jantar Mantar, demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over alleged NEET examination irregularities and has organized a Parliament march on July 20, coinciding with the start of the Monsoon session.