Climate activist and educator Sonam Wangchuk’s indefinite hunger strike reached its 20th day on Friday. He stated he would remain alive until July 20 at any cost, despite doctors warning that his fast has entered a critical phase.
Speaking to supporters at the protest site, Wangchuk, fasting since June 28, said his body is weakening but his determination is firm, according to PTI.
He told the crowd he is weak outwardly yet strong inwardly and urged everyone to stay strong for a peaceful march to Parliament on July 20 to present demands at the seat of democracy. Wangchuk added he would stay alive until that date and warned that if the march fails due to low turnout, he would return as a ghost.
The protest by the Cockroach Janta Party at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar over alleged exam irregularities entered its 28th day. The group seeks the education minister’s resignation and compensation for families of students said to have died by suicide. Wangchuk called for large attendance at the July 20 march.
Doctors warned that continued fasting risks organ damage. Wangchuk refused to end the strike, saying doing so without a government response would send the wrong signal and that success of the parliament march must remain the focus.
The Delhi High Court ordered daily health monitoring by government doctors and medical help if needed.
Separately, members of the All India Students’ Association on hunger strike at Jantar Mantar were reported in severe condition, with risks of dehydration, low blood sugar, and significant weight loss.
Opposition figures, including a Congress leader, visited the site to express solidarity while urging an end to the fast due to health concerns. They criticised the government for insensitivity to democratic protests.
