Sonam Wangchuk's Health Worsens After 16-Day Hunger Strike at Jantar Mantar

NEW DELHI: Climate activist and educator Sonam Wangchuk's health has deteriorated significantly on the 16th day of his indefinite hunger strike at Jantar Mantar. According to a health update shared by the Cockroach Janta Party on Monday, his blood glucose level has dropped to 67 mg/dL, and he has lost 8.2 kg of weight. His blood pressure was recorded at 107/70 mm Hg.

Wangchuk joined the Cockroach Janta Party's protests on June 28 and has been on an indefinite fast since then. The party is demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and compensation of ₹1 crore for the families of students who allegedly died by suicide due to examination irregularities.

CJP spokesperson Ashutosh Ranka warned that the next few days would be critical and that protesters could face arrest under the National Security Act (NSA) or the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), either before or after the planned march to Parliament on July 20. In a post on social media platform X, Ranka said, 'Over the next few days, we will be called Anti-Nationals, Urban Naxals, Pakistanis. We might be arrested either before 20th or right afterwards. Probably under NSA/UAPA. And jailed for years. But that's a price we are ready to pay.'

Ranka also questioned whether the public would hold the government accountable and ensure that Minister Pradhan, whom he holds responsible for student suicides, is removed from his post.

The protest at Jantar Mantar, now in its 24th day, has drawn support from several political figures. A delegation from the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), led by former Delhi Chief Minister Atishi, visited the site and expressed solidarity. CPI(M) MP Amra Ram and senior party leaders also extended support, backing the proposed peaceful march to Parliament on July 20. Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray has conveyed his support and concern for Wangchuk.

Separately, members of the All India Students' Association, affiliated with CPI(ML) Liberation, continued their indefinite hunger strike on another stage at the protest site. They stated that their health had worsened but the protest would continue.

Activists have appealed to the government not to turn the issue into 'a battle of egos,' emphasizing that human lives are at stake. 'Acknowledging a mistake is not a sign of weakness. It is a sign of maturity, accountability and the willingness to correct course. All we are asking for is accountability,' said one protester.