Activist Sonam Wangchuk has stated that he will continue his indefinite hunger strike, rejecting requests from supporters and political leaders to end it. In a late-night video message, Wangchuk underscored the importance of not calling off his fast without a credible assurance from the government. He expressed concern that doing so could imply a lack of accountability on the part of the authorities. Wangchuk specifically invited the public to join the upcoming march to Parliament, rather than urging him to break his fast.

In his message, Wangchuk articulated that his fasting serves a purpose beyond personal sacrifice and insisted that breaking it would not yield any significant change. He questioned the implications of resuming food intake, stating, “If I eat, what message will go? The message to the government will be that there is no need for accountability.”

Details of the ‘Chalo Sansad’ March

The 59-year-old activist encouraged citizens to participate in the Cockroach Janta Party’s “Chalo Sansad” march scheduled for July 20. He described this demonstration as an opportunity for citizens, particularly students, to gain a deeper understanding of political processes and democracy. According to Wangchuk, the participation of students would contribute a practical educational experience, aligning with the National Education Policy.

As he marked the 18th day of his strike, Wangchuk revealed that he had received numerous messages urging him to stop fasting. Despite this, he asserted the necessity of continuing his protest until tangible changes occur. He mentioned that there had been inquiries from senior political figures, some of whom have even sought legal avenues to persuade him to eat.

Wangchuk addressed health concerns stemming from his prolonged fast, clarifying that medical evaluations had not indicated any immediate threats to his well-being. He confirmed that various tests, including an ECG, had produced normal results, stating, “Many medical tests have been conducted and the results are quite normal for an 18-day fast.” Wangchuk acknowledged feelings of weakness, noting, “There is weakness and my muscles are getting weak, but my heart and core are still fine.”

Demands and Ongoing Protests

The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) has been active at Jantar Mantar, where they demand the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan due to alleged irregularities in the NEET examination process. The anticipated “Chalo Sansad” march coincides with the commencement of the Monsoon Session of Parliament, optimally timed to draw attention to their demands.

Wangchuk specifically requested educational institutions to acknowledge July 20 as a day of “experiential education,” urging participation in the march. He invited students to join in large numbers, asserting that their presence would significantly press the issue into the parliamentary discourse. He emphasised, “Come in thousands on July 20. Together, we will hand over this issue to Parliament. Then I will believe that it has gone into the right hands.”

With the march on the horizon, public interest and concern regarding Wangchuk’s health and his objectives continue to grow. Observers are closely monitoring developments from the ongoing protests, as demands for accountability in the education sector remain at the forefront of the public agenda.

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