Indian educationist and activist Sonam Wangchuk was forcibly moved to a government hospital on Saturday by Delhi Police, bringing an end to his 20-day hunger strike against the government’s handling of a major medical entrance exam leak. The 59-year-old activist had been protesting at the historic Jantar Mantar in New Delhi since June 28, surviving on only salt and water in solidarity with the online satirical movement Cockroach Janta Party (CJP). The protesters are demanding the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, holding him morally responsible for the cancellation of a medical entrance exam in May following a paper leak that impacted millions of students. During the fast, Wangchuk’s health deteriorated significantly, with reports indicating he had lost over 9 kilograms and was experiencing severe pain and difficulty standing.
The intervention came after a Delhi High Court order on Thursday directed the government to monitor Wangchuk’s health and provide necessary treatment, stating that the “life of any citizen is precious”. Authorities cited his deteriorating condition and medical advice for the removal. Videos from the protest site showed chaos as police used white sheets to shield Wangchuk before rushing him away in an ambulance while supporters attempted to resist.
Wangchuk, a renowned figure from Ladakh known for his “ice stupa” water conservation project and who inspired the character in the Bollywood film Three Idiots, had remained resolute, stating he was “strong from within” despite his physical weakness. In a post on X, his wife confirmed she was with him at the hospital and requested that no medical treatment be administered without her consent. Following his removal, CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke announced he would begin his own hunger strike. The movement, which has rapidly gained a massive following among Indian youth frustrated by high unemployment and systemic examination irregularities, has vowed to proceed with a planned march to Parliament on Monday. Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has dismissed the protesters, calling them the “B-team of disruptive elements,” while the government has yet to directly engage with their demands.