Authorities in New Delhi have intervened to move prominent social reformer Sonam Wangchuk to a hospital following a 20-day hunger strike against the national examination system. The 59-year-old activist has been fasting since 28 June to demand the immediate resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over widespread irregularities in medical entrance tests.
The action taken on Saturday morning sparked brief tensions at the Jantar Mantar demonstration site, where hundreds of students had gathered to show solidarity. The protests have gained significant momentum online and on the ground through the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), a satirical youth movement focusing on recent academic scandals.
A senior representative for the Delhi Police confirmed the relocation, stating it was carried out in accordance with recent High Court directives and expert medical guidance concerning Wangchuk’s weakening physical condition. Officials noted that while they moved to ensure necessary medical supervision, some demonstrators tried to block the path, resulting in a brief commotion. Footage from the scene captured chaotic moments as plain-clothed officers shielded the stage with white sheets to quickly transport the activist.
Wangchuk, an engineer by profession who gained international recognition for inventing sustainable water projects in the Himalayas, is currently under observation at a government facility. His wife, Gitanjali J Angmo, confirmed she was beside him but issued a firm statement on social media platforms warning that no oral or intravenous treatments should be started without the explicit permission of the family and their independent medical team.
The intervention has not halted the agitation. Following the police action, CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke declared he would immediately begin an indefinite hunger strike of his own at the site, arguing that the government had made a massive strategic error.
The dramatic developments come after the Delhi High Court ruled that the state must monitor Wangchuk's health daily, stating that the preservation of human life is paramount. The court intervention followed legal petitions raised by independent lawyers concerned that the fast was reaching a critical phase. Prior to his hospitalisation, Wangchuk pointed out that historically small movements in India have successfully shifted administrations when focused on foundational issues like public education.
Public fury remains high after well over two million medical hopefuls were forced to retake a major entrance test under tight security restrictions last month. The decision to scrap the initial test followed a massive paper leak scandal, which coincided with separate grading controversies in secondary school examinations.
Political figures from several opposition parties have thrown their support behind the student-led demonstrations. Further rallies are being synchronised to coincide with the opening of the monsoon session of the Indian parliament on Monday, though some opposition leaders have urged caution, warning that student groups must protect the health of activists rather than treat them as political pawns.
