NEW DELHI — Concerns are mounting over the rapidly deteriorating health of internationally acclaimed educator and climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, whose indefinite hunger strike at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar has entered its 17th day.
According to the latest health bulletin, Wangchuk has lost over 8.2 kg. His blood glucose levels have repeatedly plummeted below 70 mg/dL, and he is experiencing severe muscle loss and persistent dizziness. Despite his visibly weakened state, Wangchuk remains resolute, telling reporters, “I’m weak from the outside, but I’m strong from inside.”
The Genesis: The ‘Cockroach Janta Party’ Protest
The hunger strike is part of a broader agitation led by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP)—a youth-led, satirical-turned-active political movement.
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The Catalyst: The group was founded in May 2026 by political strategist Abhijeet Dipke in response to controversial remarks by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant, who had compared certain unemployed youth and social media activists to “cockroaches” and “parasites”.
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The Demands: Sparked by widespread anger over the high-profile NEET exam paper leak, the CJP has launched a 25-day-long sit-in at Jantar Mantar. Their core demands include:
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The immediate resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.
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Comprehensive structural reforms to the national examination and recruitment systems.
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A ₹1 crore compensation for the families of students who tragically died by suicide following recent examination irregularities.
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Government Dismissal vs. Opposition Solidarity
The political deadlock shows no signs of easing as both sides dig in:
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The Government’s Stance: Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has dismissed the protest, labeling the CJP and its supporters as “the B-team of disruptive elements” who lack faith in the nation’s progress. To date, the Union government has not sent any official representative to initiate a dialogue.
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Opposition Appeals: Worried by the government’s silence and Wangchuk’s critical physical state, several key political leaders have urged him to end his fast. DMK MP Kanimozhi expressed deep concern, stating that “the country needs voices like that of Wangchuk,” while TMC MP Mahua Moitra urged him to save his life for the long fight ahead.
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Aam Aadmi Party Support: An AAP delegation led by former Delhi Chief Minister Atishi visited the protest site, demanding a completely overhauled and transparent examination system.
The Road Ahead: March to Parliament
CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke has pleaded with Wangchuk to call off the fast, only for Wangchuk to reply: “Don’t ask me to end my fast. Ask the government why they won’t even have a dialogue.”
With the political tempers flaring, Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray has declared his party’s full backing for the movement and has urged political leaders—including Congress leader Rahul Gandhi—to support the CJP’s upcoming peaceful march to Parliament on July 20, marking the opening day of the Monsoon Session.
