Climate activist and educationist Sonam Wangchuk is on an indefinite hunger strike at Jantar Mantar, New Delhi, demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over the NEET-UG 2026 paper leak and CBSE marking irregularities.
Having begun his fast on 28 June, his deteriorating health has prompted a wave of concern from prominent politicians and Bollywood actors, who are urging him to call off the protest. Despite a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed in the Delhi High Court seeking his hospitalisation and force-feeding, Wangchuk has refused to end his strike. The government, in its first official response, stated that medical assistance could be provided based on doctors’ recommendations.
Meanwhile, Wangchuk has appealed to his supporters to join a peaceful march to Parliament on 20 July to press for systemic educational reforms.
A Growing Chorus of Solidarity
As the protest enters its fourth week, the physical toll on the 59-year-old activist is becoming evident. Although Wangchuk insists his vital organs are functioning normally, he admits to losing significant muscle mass.
This critical situation has united political figures from across the spectrum, including Arvind Kejriwal, Mamata Banerjee, Akhilesh Yadav, and Pinarayi Vijayan, who have appealed to him to end his fast and prioritised his well-being. The entertainment industry has also thrown its weight behind the cause. Veteran actor Zeenat Aman urged the government to initiate dialogue, warning that India must not “sit back and watch one of its greatest minds be sacrificed”. Similarly, actor Sonakshi Sinha posted a heartfelt video noting that Wangchuk has “chosen to sacrifice his own well-being for this country’s children”.
This broad coalition of support humanises the protest, transforming it from a solitary fast into a nationwide call for accountability.
The Spark Behind the Struggle
The catalyst for this widespread agitation is the string of controversies surrounding India’s examination system, particularly the NEET-UG 2026 paper leak and alleged flaws in the CBSE’s on-screen marking system.
Wangchuk aligned his efforts with the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP), which has been staging a sit-in at Jantar Mantar and recently released a five-point examination reform charter. The ongoing crisis reflects a deep-seated frustration among students and civil society over recurring exam irregularities that jeopardise the futures of millions. While opposition leaders highlight the government’s lack of accountability, a 68-year-old advocate has moved the Delhi High Court, arguing that the state has a constitutional obligation to protect Wangchuk’s life and engage in dialogue.
The government’s measured silence was recently broken with an assurance of medical aid if recommended by doctors, yet the core demands regarding the education minister’s resignation remain unaddressed.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
At The Logical Indian, we believe that a nation’s true strength lies in its youth and the integrity of the systems that shape their futures.
Sonam Wangchuk’s selfless protest highlights an urgent need for transparency and accountability in our educational framework. However, the path to positive social change must not come at the cost of a visionary’s life. We advocate for immediate, constructive dialogue between the government and the protesting bodies to ensure harmony and coexistence. Empathy and kindness demand that authorities listen to these genuine grievances rather than waiting for a health crisis to force their hand.
A compassionate democracy thrives on mutual respect and peaceful resolutions, not prolonged suffering. How long must our public figures and students compromise their health to demand a fair and corruption-free education system?
Also Read: Andhra Pradesh Reports 12 Covid Cases; Death Toll Rises To 4, Authorities Urge Caution
Hunger Strike Day 20
— Cockroach is Back (@Cockroachisback) July 17, 2026
Sonam Wangchuk’s Health Update
Total weight loss- 9.5 Kg
Blood pressure – 108/68
Mild Hydration is observed pic.twitter.com/aOYD9ryJCA
