Indian activist Sonam Wangchuk has lost 11 kilograms (24 pounds) during a 26-day hunger strike, demanding education reforms and the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. Wangchuk, known as "Sonam sir," stated he is "still alive" despite his significant weight loss. His protest has become a central point for a youth-led movement in India.
Wangchuk was forcibly removed from the protest venue at Delhi's Jantar Mantar on Saturday and taken to a hospital. He continues his fast from the hospital, refusing to end it without specific government assurances. The activist seeks a guarantee that no force or retaliatory action will be used against students involved in the protests.
This hunger strike and the broader protests highlight growing public anger over repeated exam paper leaks in India. These leaks, particularly affecting the medical entrance test, have frustrated students and galvanized the opposition. The situation poses a significant challenge for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government, which has faced criticism for its handling of the issue.
Prime Minister Modi has not directly commented on the protests or engaged with the protesters. However, he posted a statement on X, formerly Twitter, on Thursday. Modi stated, "Nothing is more important than the welfare and future of our youth." He also announced plans for fast-track courts to ensure swift punishment for those involved in paper leaks.
A spokesperson for the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), Ashutosh Ranka, criticized the government's response. Ranka said, "You are applying medicine after an injury, but our struggle asks why the injury has to happen." This indicates that protesters will not back down until their core demands are met, including Pradhan's resignation.
Medanta Hospital, Gurugram, confirmed Wangchuk's admission to the ICU in a statement on Wednesday. The hospital reported he is stable, oriented, and his vital signs are within accepted parameters. He is receiving treatment from a multidisciplinary team of doctors, all with his informed consent.
Health Minister JP Nadda visited Wangchuk in the hospital on Tuesday night, requesting him to end his fast. Nadda stated the government is open to discussing the issues raised by Wangchuk. However, Wangchuk has refused all such appeals, insisting on government assurances regarding student safety.
CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke and other opposition figures have also renewed requests for Wangchuk to call off his hunger strike. Dipke emphasized that the peaceful protest at Jantar Mantar will continue until Pradhan resigns. He added, "We will not let Sonam sir's hunger strike go in vain."
Students blame Minister Pradhan for the repeated exam leaks and demand his moral responsibility and resignation. Pradhan has not addressed the resignation demand directly. He has instead criticized the opposition Congress party for allegedly exploiting students for political gain.
On Monday, tens of thousands marched through central Delhi after the CJP called for a demonstration to parliament. Clashes erupted after police used batons and tear gas, injuring at least 60 protesters and 118 police officers. Police arrested 70 protesters, most of whom have since been released on bail.
Authorities also dismantled the protesters' stage and makeshift tents at Jantar Mantar. Despite this, demonstrators have maintained a round-the-clock sit-in under heavy police and paramilitary deployment. Since Wednesday, 16 Delhi metro stations in central Delhi have been closed, a move protesters believe is intended to prevent people from reaching Jantar Mantar.