As Sonam Wangchuk’s Hunger Strike Hits Day 18, Activist Dipke Accuses Centre of ‘Silence’
NEW DELHI: The indefinite hunger strike by social activist Sonam Wangchuk over alleged irregularities in the NEET examination entered its 18th day on Wednesday, drawing sharp criticism from political activist Abhijeet Dipke, who accused the central government of remaining silent on the issue.
In a post on social media platform X, Dipke said, “The man who chose to put his own life on the line to seek justice for students who died by suicide has received nothing but silence from the government.” He added, “The government is not just unaccountable; it is also cruel.”
Dipke also addressed critics who questioned the lack of support from opposition leaders or other members of the CJP (Crackdown on Paper Leak Janata Party, an anti-cheating organisation). He urged the public to ask questions that “actually matter,” such as: “Why is the Prime Minister refusing to engage in a dialogue? Why is the Education Minister still not being held accountable?”
Wangchuk, a Ladakh-based education activist, joined the CJP-led protest at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar on June 28 and began his fast the same day. The protest demands action against a NEET paper leak and other examination irregularities that have been linked to student suicides.
His health has reportedly deteriorated; organisers said he has lost 8.5 kg since starting the fast. The CJP has announced a march to Parliament on July 20 to press its demands.
On Tuesday, several opposition leaders appealed to Wangchuk to end his fast, expressing concern for his life while reiterating support for the cause. Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav spoke to Wangchuk by phone, calling him “valuable” and urging him not to risk his health. Aam Aadmi Party convenor Arvind Kejriwal also appealed to Wangchuk to call off the fast, pledging his party’s backing for the protest.
The government has not issued an official response to Wangchuk’s demands. The NEET paper leak and related exam irregularities have sparked widespread protests across the country, with students and parents demanding accountability and reforms.
