Medical Concerns Escalate as Fast Reaches Day 20
On July 17, 2026, the indefinite hunger strike led by climate activist and educator Sonam Wangchuk entered its 20th day at Jantar Mantar, New Delhi. The fast, which began on June 28, 2026, in solidarity with the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP)'s demands for educational reforms and ministerial accountability, has reached a critical phase.
According to medical personnel on-site, Wangchuk has lost over 9 kilograms of body weight, exhibiting signs of severe weakness and muscle loss. Doctors have cautioned that continued fasting presents imminent risks of organ impairment.
Delhi High Court Directs Daily Health Monitoring
In response to a petition concerning his health, the Delhi High Court issued a directive on July 16, 2026, ordering local authorities to conduct daily medical evaluations of Sonam Wangchuk. The court emphasized that the "life of any citizen is precious" and mandated that necessary medical interventions be provided immediately if his vitals deteriorate to life-threatening levels.
Standpoint of the Demonstrators
Despite warnings from medical professionals and the High Court's scrutiny, Wangchuk has reaffirmed his resolve to continue the fast.
The demonstration is structured around key issues:
- Systemic Exam Reform: Addressing the recent paper leak scandals and calling for the restructuring of national examination systems.
- Solidarity March: The fast is scheduled to continue until at least July 20, 2026, coinciding with a nationwide peaceful march to Parliament organized by CJP volunteers and youth alliances.
CJP coordinators at the Kolkata solidarity node have urged supporters to maintain a peaceful, non-violent assembly and rely only on verified news releases, rejecting uncorroborated social media rumors.