Hunger Strike Deepens Crisis: Sonam Wangchuk's 20-Day Fast for Education Minister's Resignation Underscores National Discontent

NEW DELHI – Environmentalist and education reformer Sonam Wangchuk's indefinite hunger strike entered its 20th day on Friday, July 17, 2026, as his health deteriorates, intensifying national pressure on the government to address widespread allegations of irregularities in India's critical examination system. Wangchuk, renowned for his advocacy and innovative educational work, is demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, holding him accountable for the recent NEET-UG paper leak and other systemic failures affecting millions of students nationwide. Despite mounting concern for the activist's well-being and a growing chorus of support from political figures and student organizations, the central government, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has maintained a conspicuous silence on the protest.

Wangchuk's fast at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi is part of a broader agitation led by the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP), a movement born out of profound disillusionment with the integrity of India's education and examination infrastructure. The protest specifically targets the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET-UG) paper leak and alleged irregularities in the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) On-Screen Marking system. These issues have caused immense distress to tens of thousands of students, with some reports even linking the examination-related stress to student suicides. Wangchuk joined the ongoing CJP protest on June 28, initiating his indefinite fast to amplify the demand for accountability and reform.

The physical toll of the prolonged fast has become increasingly evident. Medical professionals monitoring Wangchuk's condition report a significant decline in his health, with the activist having lost over nine kilograms since beginning his strike. Doctors warn that his body is consuming muscle tissue and that his ketone levels indicate a critical stage of starvation, with the next stage potentially impacting vital organs. Despite these alarming health warnings, Wangchuk has remained resolute, stating that ending his fast without a government response would send a detrimental message. The Delhi High Court has ordered authorities to monitor his health, and a public interest litigation has been filed seeking urgent medical intervention, including the possibility of force-feeding if necessary to preserve his life.

The government's perceived inaction has fueled criticism across the political spectrum. Opposition leaders, including former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, Samajwadi Party MP Dimple Yadav, and Congress General Secretary (Organisation) K.C. Venugopal, have visited Jantar Mantar to express solidarity with Wangchuk and the student-led protest. While appealing to Wangchuk to end his fast due to health concerns, the Indian National Congress has simultaneously reiterated its demand for Education Minister Pradhan's resignation and launched its own campaign, 'Chhatron Ki Goonj,' against examination irregularities. Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Omar Abdullah also expressed concern over Wangchuk's health, criticizing the Centre for its failure to engage with the activist. This widespread concern highlights a growing perception of government insensitivity and apathy towards the grievances of students and a prominent national figure.

Sonam Wangchuk is no stranger to such forms of protest. An engineer, innovator, and education reformist, he has consistently used hunger strikes to draw attention to critical issues. Prior to his current fast, Wangchuk undertook several hunger strikes advocating for constitutional safeguards for Ladakh, his home region. These demands, which have been ongoing since Ladakh was carved out as a Union Territory in 2019, include statehood and inclusion under the Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution. The Sixth Schedule aims to protect tribal populations and their distinct social, cultural, and customary practices by granting autonomous administrative frameworks. Wangchuk's previous protests for Ladakh highlighted concerns over the region's fragile ecosystem, potential exploitation by industrial plans, and the need for greater democratic representation to protect its 97% tribal population. He has, in the past, been detained for inciting anti-government protests related to these demands, spending 170 days in custody before charges were dropped. His consistent advocacy underscores a deep-seated commitment to holding power accountable and safeguarding vulnerable communities and environments.

As the hunger strike progresses, the stakes continue to rise. Wangchuk and the CJP have called for a "Parliament march" on July 20, the first day of the new parliamentary session, to further press their demands directly to lawmakers. The ongoing silence from the Prime Minister and the Education Minister creates a volatile situation, with implications not only for the health of a revered activist but also for the government's image regarding accountability and responsiveness to public concerns. The unfolding events at Jantar Mantar are a testament to the persistent calls for systemic reform and transparent governance in India's crucial education sector.