Delhi High Court Steps In as Sonam Wangchuk Continues Fast

Climate activist and education reform advocate Sonam Wangchuk has entered the 19th day of his indefinite hunger strike, with concerns over his health prompting intervention from the Delhi High Court. While hearing a Public Interest Litigation (PIL), the court directed authorities to conduct regular medical examinations and closely monitor his condition throughout the protest.

The court reportedly observed that protecting life remains a priority and instructed the Centre to ensure continuous health supervision while the protest continues.

Health Being Monitored Around the Clock

According to the latest medical updates shared by those monitoring the protest, Wangchuk remains under 24-hour observation. Reports indicate his weight has fallen to approximately 57.15 kg, reflecting a loss of nearly 8.9 kg since the hunger strike began. His reported blood pressure is 105/76 mm Hg, blood sugar 80 mg/dL and oxygen saturation 97%. Supporters say his condition is stable but requires continuous monitoring.

Why Is Sonam Wangchuk Protesting?

The ongoing hunger strike is linked to demands for accountability over alleged NEET examination irregularities and calls for the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. Wangchuk has ruled out ending the fast and has appealed to students and citizens to participate in the planned Parliament march on July 20.

Support Extends Beyond Celebrities

What began as an individual protest has evolved into a much larger public movement. Besides student groups and civil society organisations, the hunger strike has attracted support from political leaders across party lines.

Among the prominent political figures reported to have extended support are AAP leader Atishi, TMC MP Mahua Moitra and leaders associated with the CPI(M), who have either visited the protest site or publicly backed the movement. Their participation highlights that the campaign now has a broader political and civil-society dimension beyond individual activism.

Celebrities Join the Campaign

The protest has also received support from several well-known personalities from the film and cultural sectors. Reports have named Zeenat Aman, Naseeruddin Shah, Ratna Pathak Shah, Swara Bhasker, Anurag Kashyap, Shabana Azmi and Prakash Raj among those expressing solidarity with Wangchuk's campaign.

Based on publicly available reports, at least 17 prominent public figures have been identified as supporters, although the actual number is likely to be higher since several reports refer to additional personalities without naming each individual.

Parliament March Scheduled for July 20

The organisers have announced a Parliament march on July 20 along with a one-day mass hunger strike. Wangchuk has appealed to students and citizens to participate peacefully, describing the demonstration as an effort to encourage public engagement on issues affecting education and accountability.

What Happens Next?

With the Delhi High Court monitoring Wangchuk's health and support for the protest continuing to grow, attention is now focused on whether the government will initiate dialogue with the protesters. No official announcement has yet been made regarding discussions or any change in the government's position.