Engineer-turned-climate activist and education reformer Sonam Wangchuk has called on citizens across India to participate in a peaceful march to Parliament on July 20, the opening day of the Monsoon Session.
The appeal came as Wangchuk’s indefinite hunger strike entered its 18th day, with growing concerns over his health.
Wangchuk Asks Supporters to Join the Protest
On Tuesday, Wangchuk shared a video on X (formerly Twitter), urging people to strengthen the movement through peaceful and democratic means instead of requesting him to end his fast.
In his post, he wrote:
“I’m not in good shape but not so bad either… Rather than asking me to break my fast please join me on 20th July… Peaceful March to the Parliament.”
His message highlighted that although his physical condition has weakened, his determination to continue the protest remains strong.
Protest Continues at Jantar Mantar
The hunger strike is part of the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) protest taking place at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi.
The protesters are demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan following the alleged NEET paper leak controversy and the reported deaths of more than 10 students linked to the issue.
The agitation has continued for several weeks, drawing support from students, activists and members of civil society.
Health Concerns Continue to Grow
Medical concerns surrounding Wangchuk have intensified as his fast continues.
Reports over the past few days have suggested that his health has deteriorated significantly during the prolonged hunger strike.
Despite repeated appeals from supporters and public figures to end his fast, Wangchuk has maintained that the movement must continue until accountability is ensured.
Writers, Artists and Public Figures Extend Support
Several well-known personalities have expressed solidarity with Wangchuk’s movement while urging him to protect his health.
Among those supporting the protest are writer Arundhati Roy, actors Naseeruddin Shah, Ratna Pathak Shah, Omi Vaidya, and economist Jayati Ghosh.
In a joint statement issued on Monday, the group praised Wangchuk and the protesters for standing up against injustice while expressing concern over their worsening health.
The statement said:
“We salute your sense of purpose, the determination and courage with which you are spearheading this movement for students and youth across this country.”
The group further appealed to Wangchuk to end the hunger strike, saying the larger fight for justice would require his continued leadership and strength.
Petition Filed in Delhi High Court
Meanwhile, legal efforts have also begun to address Wangchuk’s health.
According to reports, a petition has been filed before the Delhi High Court seeking urgent medical intervention. The plea cites concerns over his deteriorating physical condition after more than two weeks of fasting.
The petition requests appropriate medical attention while the protest continues.
Wangchuk Calls for Peaceful and Non-Violent Protest
Despite mounting pressure to end his fast, Wangchuk has remained firm in his stand.
He has repeatedly urged supporters to ensure that the July 20 Parliament march remains peaceful, disciplined, and non-violent.
The activist emphasized that democratic participation and peaceful protest are the most effective ways to strengthen the movement and press for accountability.