Opposition Leaders, Film Stars Rally Behind Sonam Wangchuk as Fast Continues

Sonam Wangchuk's fast-unto-death entered a critical stage on Thursday, drawing increased support from opposition politicians, film personalities, and civil society members at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi. The activist, who is protesting against alleged irregularities in the NEET and CBSE examinations, has been on a fast for several days demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.

Former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal visited the protest site, calling for Mr. Pradhan's resignation and suggesting that Mr. Wangchuk should replace him. Samajwadi Party MP Dimple Yadav, along with other party MPs, also met Mr. Wangchuk and urged the government to initiate a dialogue. The Congress party, which has been holding separate rallies on the same issue, broke its silence with leader K.C. Venugopal appealing to Mr. Wangchuk to end his fast, stating that the party shares his concerns.

The Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) expressed support through its deputy general secretary A. Raja, while Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah voiced concern, emphasizing the need for compassion. The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), a new online movement with over 2 crore Instagram followers, has planned a march to Parliament on July 20, which Mr. Wangchuk has endorsed.

Several film personalities, including actors Imran Khan, Sonakshi Sinha, and Fatima Sana Shaikh, posted messages of support on social media. The Supreme Court Bar Association's president, senior advocate Vikas Singh, also met Mr. Wangchuk and urged him to break his fast, stating that the country needs him alive and leading.

The protest has drawn attention to the broader issue of examination fairness and accountability in the education system. Opposition parties have been demanding Mr. Pradhan's resignation over alleged paper leaks and irregularities. The Congress plans a 'Chhatron Ki Goonj' rally in Dehradun on Friday to raise the same issues.