Sonam Wangchuk Hospitalized After 21-Day Hunger Strike
Social activist Sonam Wangchuk was recently rushed to a hospital in New Delhi after his health sharply declined on the 21st day of his hunger strike. The 59-year-old activist had been fasting since late June to demand the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, citing the massive exam paper leaks in May that severely impacted millions of students across India. Following a court order that prioritized his medical wellbeing, authorities intervened to provide essential care as his condition became increasingly critical.
The Delhi High Court had previously directed officials to closely monitor Wangchuk's health, particularly amid legal petitions calling for state intervention. Despite his hospitalization, the movement remains active; supporters from the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) have announced plans to march toward the Indian parliament later this month to continue pressuring the government for systemic education reforms. This is not the first time Wangchuk has faced friction with the authorities, as he previously spent six months in jail last year over accusations regarding protests in Ladakh—a charge he has consistently denied as he remains committed to his advocacy for transparency and accountability.