Sonam Wangchuk’s Health Worsens on Day 16 of CJP Protest

New Delhi: Climate activist and educationist Sonam Wangchuk has lost around six kilograms after completing eight days of his indefinite hunger strike. The protest by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) at Jantar Mantar entered its 16th day on Sunday, with participants demanding strict action against repeated paper leaks and examination malpractices.

Medical Bulletin Raises Concern

Doctors monitoring Wangchuk issued a health update stating his blood pressure was recorded at 112/70 mm Hg, heart rate at 72 beats per minute, and blood sugar at 67 mg/dL. While he remains mentally alert and fairly hydrated, his weight has dropped to 60.95 kg, raising concerns among supporters.

Protest Demands and Open Letter to PM

The agitation, which started on June 20, centres on allegations that frequent exam irregularities have ruined the future of lakhs of students. On Saturday, CJP released an open letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi questioning his silence on the issue and urging accountability from the Education Minister.

The letter, signed by party leaders, emphasised that a prolonged hunger strike by a dedicated activist like Wangchuk should prompt a moral and political response from the government.

Support Grows for the Movement

The protest continues to draw attention from various sections. The Samyukta Kisan Morcha is expected to send a delegation on July 7. Several student groups, including the All India Students’ Association, have joined with their own indefinite fasts. Jawaharlal Nehru University Students’ Union joint secretary Danish Ali was hospitalised after her blood sugar levels dropped.

The ongoing demonstration highlights growing public frustration over the education system and repeated instances of paper leaks across competitive examinations.