Activist Sonam Wangchuk has declared that he intends to maintain his indefinite hunger strike until July 20, aiming to participate in a proposed march to Parliament spearheaded by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP). During a recent address to supporters at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi, Wangchuk expressed his commitment to the cause and stated, “I will stay alive by any means until July 20, so that I can march to Parliament with all of you.” He added a rather striking remark suggesting that if the planned mobilization fails, he would “come back as a ghost.”

Wangchuk is currently on day twenty of his fast, which is part of a larger protest demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over alleged irregularities within the education sector. The ongoing demonstration at Jantar Mantar has reached its 28th day, with a strong focus on the upcoming “Sansad Chalo” or Parliament march.

Encouraging his supporters, Wangchuk emphasised the importance of a significant turnout for the planned event. He stated, “I am weak from the outside but very strong inside.” He urged attendees to use their energy to contribute to a successful and peaceful march to Parliament, indicating that they would present their appeal to “the temple of democracy.”

Health Concerns Arise as Hunger Strike Persists

As Wangchuk’s hunger strike continues into its third week, concerns about his health have become increasingly pronounced. In an update released on Thursday, it was reported that his weight had decreased to 56.65 kg, having lost 500 grams in just the previous 24 hours and over 9 kg since the commencement of the fast. Medical professionals have noted his blood pressure at 105/61 mmHg, blood sugar at 80 mg/dL, and oxygen saturation at 97%.

While Wangchuk remains conscious and mentally alert, doctors have indicated that he requires ongoing medical supervision. His deteriorating health has drawn the attention of the Delhi High Court, which has mandated daily monitoring and provision for medical assistance by both the Centre and Delhi government if his condition worsens. In response, the Centre confirmed that it would oversee Wangchuk’s health closely.

In recent days, several prominent figures from various fields, including politicians, writers, and actors, have visited Jantar Mantar to show solidarity with Wangchuk and have urged him to end his hunger strike. Despite this, Wangchuk has reiterated that the movement requires active participation rather than mere sympathy.

Transformation of the CJP Protest Through Wangchuk’s Fasting

Wangchuk’s indefinite hunger strike has markedly altered the trajectory of the CJP protest. Originally perceived as a satirical campaign initiated by students, the movement gained significant momentum after its inception, which was a reaction to Chief Justice of India Surya Kant’s remarks about unemployed youth. Wangchuk’s decision to abstain from food has shifted this protest from an online initiative to one with a palpable moral focus.

This act of personal sacrifice has redefined the public conversation surrounding the protest, transcending beyond conventional slogans and speeches. Following a two-week period of fasting, the movement began to attract considerable media attention and prompted engagement from notable opposition leaders. Various civil society figures also began advocating for Wangchuk to end his fast, increasing the visibility of the protest.

Supporters who gather at Jantar Mantar now do so not only to protest perceived failures within the education system but also to express solidarity with Wangchuk. His deteriorating health has become a poignant symbol of the movement. However, Wangchuk maintains that mere sympathy cannot sustain their agitation. He emphasises that the success of the Parliament march, rather than the duration of his fast, will ultimately determine the protest’s effectiveness.

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