17 July,2026 03:02 PM IST | Delhi | mid-day online correspondent
Sonam Wangchuk and a medical professional on the 20th day of his indefinite hunger strike during the Cockroach Janata Party’s (CJP) protest, demanding the Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan’s resignation over alleged irregularities in the NEET examination at Jantar Mantar, in New Delhi on Friday. Pic/PTI
Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk on Friday said he would continue his indefinite hunger strike until the planned Parliament march on July 20, even as doctors warned that his health had entered a critical phase after 20 days without food.
Addressing supporters at Delhi's Jantar Mantar, Wangchuk urged people to participate in the proposed march and present their demands in what he called the "temple of democracy."
"I am weak from the outside but very strong inside. We need this energy for July 20, when we will take out a peaceful march to Parliament. We will go together and present our plea in the temple of democracy. I will stay alive till July 20 at any cost. If you don't come and July 20 is not successful, I will come back as a ghost," Wangchuk said.
Wangchuk has been on an indefinite hunger strike in support of the Cockroach Janata Party's (CJP) protest demanding accountability over alleged irregularities in the NEET examination.
According to Dr Satish Lamba of the Delhi Medical Association, Wangchuk's weight has fallen to 56.55 kg, reflecting a loss of 350 grams in the last 24 hours. His blood pressure was recorded at 108/68, blood sugar at 70 mg/dL, and pulse rate at 72 beats per minute.
Doctors said Wangchuk is experiencing mild dehydration and warned that his prolonged fast has entered a critical stage, with possible organ involvement. A medical team is maintaining round-the-clock monitoring of his condition.
On Thursday, the Delhi High Court directed authorities to ensure Wangchuk's health is clinically monitored every day and stressed that all possible efforts should be made to protect his life during the hunger strike.
Congress leader Pawan Khera visited Jantar Mantar on Friday and expressed concern over Wangchuk's health while backing calls for greater transparency and accountability in examinations.
Meanwhile, protest organiser Abhijit Dipke said Wangchuk remains determined to continue the fast and that several Opposition parties have extended support to the proposed Parliament march scheduled for July 20.
