Wangchuk's Hunger Strike Enters Day 16 as Health Declines

Educator and climate activist Sonam Wangchuk's health has deteriorated significantly as his indefinite hunger strike at New Delhi's Jantar Mantar protest site entered its 16th day on Monday, July 13, 2026. The protest, organized by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), centers on demands for accountability over alleged irregularities in national examinations, including the NEET paper leak.

According to health updates provided by the CJP, Wangchuk's blood glucose level dropped to 67 mg/dL and his blood pressure was recorded at 107/70 mm Hg. He has lost 8.2 kilograms since beginning his fast on June 28. The broader CJP protest, which began on June 20, entered its 24th day on Monday. The group's core demands include the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and financial compensation of 1 crore rupees for the families of students who allegedly died by suicide due to examination-related stress and irregularities.

CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke appealed to the government to address the protesters' concerns, stating that the issue should not become a battle of egos as human lives are at stake. He emphasized that acknowledging a mistake is a sign of maturity and accountability.