New Delhi: Activist Sonam Wangchuk has refused to end his indefinite hunger strike despite doctors warning that his health has entered a critical stage. As the protest completed 20 days in Delhi, the 59 year old said he was determined to continue his fast until July 20 and urged supporters to participate in a peaceful march to Parliament on the opening day of the Monsoon Session.
Addressing supporters, Wangchuk said he remained mentally strong despite growing physical weakness. He appealed for a massive turnout at the proposed march, saying it was an opportunity to present their demands before the country’s highest democratic institution. In a light hearted remark, he joked that if the July 20 demonstration was not successful, he would “come back as a ghost,” drawing laughter from those gathered.
Wangchuk is demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over the alleged NEET paper leak and has been on a water only fast since joining the protest on June 28. The agitation itself began on June 20.
Doctors monitoring his condition have expressed serious concern over the prolonged fast. According to the medical team, Wangchuk has lost around nine kilograms and is now experiencing significant muscle and fat loss. They warned that after exhausting its energy reserves, the body could begin affecting vital organs, making the situation potentially life threatening if the fast continues.
Despite the medical warnings, Wangchuk has maintained that ending the hunger strike without any response from the government would send the wrong message. He reiterated that his immediate priority is ensuring a successful and peaceful march to Parliament on July 20.
The matter has also come before the Delhi High Court, which has directed authorities to closely monitor Wangchuk’s health on a daily basis and provide immediate medical assistance if his condition worsens. His protest continues amid growing concern over his deteriorating physical condition and calls for dialogue to resolve the issue.
