Health concerns grow as Sonam Wangchuk continues indefinite hunger strike

Concern is growing over the health of Indian climate activist and education reform advocate Sonam Wangchuk after he completed 16 days on an indefinite hunger strike in New Delhi. Supporters and doctors have urged the 59 year old to end his fast as his physical condition continues to decline, but Wangchuk says he remains committed to his protest until the government addresses their demands.

According to the latest medical update, Wangchuk has lost 8.2 kilograms since beginning the hunger strike. Doctors also reported that his blood pressure has fallen to 107 over 70 while his blood sugar level has dropped to 67. His supporters say he now struggles to stand for long periods and often feels dizzy even while walking short distances.

Despite the health concerns, Wangchuk insists he will continue the protest. Speaking to the media, he said he may appear physically weak but remains mentally strong. He added that he intends to carry his campaign through to its conclusion and believes peaceful protest is the best way to seek change.

The demonstration is taking place at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi, a site well known for public protests. It was launched by the Cockroach Janta Party, an online satirical movement calling for reforms in India’s education system. The group is demanding the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan after a national medical entrance examination was cancelled earlier this year because of a major paper leak.

Several students and activists have joined Wangchuk in the hunger strike. One participant was recently admitted to hospital after his condition worsened. Protest organizers say they are deeply concerned about Wangchuk’s health but have been unable to persuade him to end his fast. They say he believes accountability in the education system must come before his personal well being.

The Indian government has rejected the protesters’ demands. Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has refused to resign and dismissed the movement as politically motivated. Protest leaders, however, maintain that they are only seeking accountability and greater transparency in the country’s examination system.

Wangchuk is one of Ladakh’s most respected public figures and is widely known for his work in education and environmental conservation. A mechanical engineer by training, he gained international recognition for developing the Ice Stupa project, an artificial glacier that stores water during winter and releases it in spring to support farming in the cold Himalayan region. His work earned him the Ramon Magsaysay Award in 2018, one of Asia’s highest honors.

He also inspired the famous Bollywood film Three Idiots and has become a prominent voice on climate change and sustainable development. Last year, Wangchuk spent around 170 days in prison after being arrested over protest related allegations before the charges against him were dropped.

Hundreds of people continue to gather at the protest site each day despite intense summer heat to show support for Wangchuk and the broader campaign. Activists, students, academics, opposition politicians, and social media personalities have visited the site, while many ordinary citizens have appealed to him to end the hunger strike for the sake of his health.

Organizers say no representatives from the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party have held talks with the protesters so far. Frustrated by the lack of government response, the group has announced plans to march to India’s Parliament on 20 July, hoping to draw greater attention to their demands for education reform and accountability.