New Delhi: On the 19th day of his indefinite hunger strike at Jantar Mantar, climate activist and educator Sonam Wangchuk’s health condition has deteriorated, leading the Delhi High Court to order both the Delhi government and the Union government to ensure regular monitoring of his health.
Wangchuk, 59, began the fast on June 28, joining the ongoing Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) protest that commenced on June 20 over alleged irregularities in competitive examinations, including the NEET-UG paper leak. The core demands include the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and greater accountability in the education system.
Doctors warned on Thursday (July 16, 2026) that Wangchuk’s condition had entered a critical stage. Dr. Satish Lamba, who has been regularly examining the activist, stated that he has lost over 9 kg since the start of the fast but remains “mentally alert.”
Health bulletins from the protest site have tracked the decline. By the 11th day of his fast, Wangchuk’s weight had dropped to around 59.4 kg, reflecting a loss of more than 7 kg. Parameters included blood pressure readings such as 103/68 mm Hg (sitting) and 111/73 mm Hg (lying down), heart rate of 74 beats per minute, blood glucose of 75 mg/dL, and oxygen saturation at 98 per cent, with fair hydration levels.
Subsequent updates showed cumulative weight loss reaching 8.2 kg by the 16th day, with blood pressure at 107/70 mm Hg and blood sugar levels falling to 67 mg/dL. Medical teams have noted increasing weakness, dizziness on standing or walking, and overall frailty as the fast progressed into its third week.
The Delhi High Court’s directive requires both the state (Delhi) and Union governments to implement regular health monitoring and provide necessary medical intervention if required. Wangchuk has been consuming only salt water during the protest.
Wangchuk, known for his long-standing advocacy on Ladakh’s environmental protection, cultural preservation, and demands for Sixth Schedule status and statehood, joined the CJP agitation to support education reforms and highlight governance accountability. He has linked the issues to unfulfilled promises and their impact on students and border regions.
The CJP protest has received solidarity from various quarters, including student organisations like AISA (some of whose members are also on hunger strike and have faced health issues requiring hospitalisation), political leaders, and groups such as the Samyukta Kisan Morcha. A peaceful march to Parliament is planned for July 20, the first day of the Monsoon Session.
As the situation develops, authorities are expected to comply with the court’s order for close monitoring of Wangchuk’s health parameters at the protest site. The activist has maintained his determination to continue the fast in pursuit of the movement’s goals.