Sonam Wangchuk said he is willing to end his 25-day hunger strike if the Centre assures that no action will be taken against protesters
July 22, 2026: Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk on Wednesday said he was prepared to end his hunger strike if the Centre assured that no action would be taken against protesters participating in the movement led by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP). July 22 marks the 25th day of Wangchuk’s fast over the alleged NEET paper leak controversy, which has sparked nationwide protests demanding accountability and education reforms.
Meanwhile, the Delhi High Court sought responses from the Centre and the Delhi Police over allegations of excessive force used during the CJP’s protest march in the national capital. Hearing two petitions seeking a Special Investigation Team (SIT) probe, the court directed the authorities to file their replies and scheduled the next hearing for September 11. Petitioners alleged that police used force against peaceful demonstrators without warning and sought action against an Additional DCP over the alleged assault of a woman during the protest.
Opposing the petitions, Delhi Police argued that the demonstration had turned violent and could no longer be described as peaceful. Police told the court that video evidence showed officers sustaining injuries and alleged that sections of the crowd became unruly, resorting to stone-pelting and violence. The force maintained that its actions were taken in response to the deteriorating law and order situation.