Congress has appealed to activist Sonam Wangchuk to end his indefinite hunger strike while renewing its demand
July 16, 2026: The Congress on Thursday appealed to activist Sonam Wangchuk to end his indefinite hunger strike, citing his deteriorating health, while reiterating its demand for the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. Congress General Secretary K.C. Venugopal said the party shares Wangchuk’s concerns over the alleged collapse of the examination system and assured him that the Opposition would continue to press the government for accountability.
The appeal came on the 19th day of Wangchuk’s fast as doctors warned that he had entered a critical stage. According to the latest medical bulletin, Wangchuk has lost over 9 kg, exhausted his glucose reserves, and his body has started consuming muscle tissue. While he remains mentally alert and under continuous medical supervision, doctors cautioned that prolonged fasting could eventually affect vital organs.
Despite growing concern over his health, Wangchuk has refused to end his fast without a response from the Centre and has instead called on supporters to strengthen the proposed “Chalo Sansad” march on July 20. Meanwhile, the Delhi High Court has directed authorities to monitor his health daily and provide medical care whenever necessary. Several public figures, including Rakesh Tikait, Arvind Kejriwal, Vishal Dadlani, Sayaji Shinde, and Shobhaa De, have expressed support for the activist.