Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk loses over 7 kg on 11th day of fast amid CJP protest
Educator and climate activist Sonam Wangchuk's health showed further deterioration on Wednesday as doctors reported a weight loss of over 7 kg on the 11th day of his indefinite fast at Jantar Mantar, Delhi. The fast is part of a larger protest by the political group CJP (formerly known as Cockroach Janata Party) demanding accountability over alleged examination irregularities.
The protest, which began on June 20, entered its 19th day on Wednesday. According to a health bulletin issued that morning, Wangchuk's weight has dropped to 59.40 kg, with a total weight loss exceeding 7 kg since the start of his hunger strike. His blood pressure was recorded at 103/68 mm Hg while sitting and 111/73 mm Hg lying down, with a heart rate of 74 beats per minute, blood glucose level of 75 mg/dL, and oxygen saturation at 98%. The bulletin noted fair hydration and that he remained mentally alert.
The CJP has been demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, alleging repeated examination irregularities and paper leaks that have harmed students and their families. The group also seeks scrapping of the National Testing Agency (NTA), compensation for families of students who died by suicide, and action against those responsible for alleged irregularities.
On Tuesday, the Delhi High Court ordered the restoration of CJP's original X handle, which had been withheld in May. CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke called the order a significant victory for free speech and digital rights.
A delegation from the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (SKM) also visited the protest site on Tuesday to express solidarity and reiterate support for the protesters' demands. Additionally, members of the All India Students' Association (AISA) — Neha, Manish, Hrishikesh, Deepak Kumar Verma, and Aameen — continued their indefinite hunger strike on a separate stage at the site.
The protests stem from the cancellation of the NEET-UG exam held on May 3 due to allegations of a paper leak, with a re-test conducted on June 21. The CJP's demonstration has drawn support from various political leaders, activists, and civil society members.
