Activist Sonam Wangchuk marked the 16th day of his hunger strike at Jantar Mantar on Monday. The action forms part of a demonstration led by the Cockroach Janta Party demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan following the leak of NEET-UG examination papers.
In remarks to Indian Express Hindi, Wangchuk called on Prime Minister Narendra Modi to heed public concerns and invited leaders across parties to participate. He stated that the minister’s resignation would establish accountability and help prevent ongoing issues of impunity in decision-making. Wangchuk warned that leaked papers could result in unqualified doctors and engineers, ultimately endangering lives, and noted that dishonesty now appears to permeate many sectors of society.
He reported no direct or indirect contact from the government and urged citizens to amplify the protest so authorities would engage in dialogue. Wangchuk described the resignation demand as an initial step that should lead to broader reforms discussed in the upcoming Monsoon Session of Parliament, with input from students and education experts.
Daily attendance at the site ranged between 5,000 and 7,000 people. Wangchuk invited participation from the BJP and other groups, including opposition figures, and expressed hope that leaders from all parties would attend. He said the platform carries no political affiliation and confirmed he had verified the organisers’ motives before joining.
