Activist Sonam Wangchuk Joins Protest Demanding Education Minister's Resignation, Begins Hunger Strike
Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk on Sunday began a hunger strike at Jantar Mantar, where a political group has been protesting since June 20, calling for the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over alleged irregularities in examinations.
Hundreds of protesters, mostly youth and students, gathered at Jantar Mantar as Mr. Wangchuk started his fast. Several farmer leaders were also present. The protest began with a two-minute silence.
Before the hunger strike, Mr. Wangchuk and the protest organisers visited Rajghat and paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi.
The group, which has been protesting since June 20, has alleged that irregularities in exams, including the medical entrance test NEET, demand accountability. Mr. Wangchuk said he was fasting to seek justice for students and demand the education minister's resignation.
On Sunday morning, protest leaders alleged that some farmers' leaders from Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, and Punjab were placed under house arrest to prevent them from reaching Jantar Mantar.
The protest has also seen participation from students and civil society members. The organisers have said the issue reflects wider concerns about transparency and trust in the education system.
