Climate activist and education reformer Sonam Wangchuk has appealed to people across the country to take part in a peaceful march to Parliament on July 20, the opening day of the Monsoon Session, as his indefinite hunger strike entered its 18th day.

Sharing a video message on X, Wangchuk said his health had declined but urged supporters to strengthen the movement through peaceful public participation instead of asking him to end his fast.

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Sonam Wangchuk appeals for peaceful participation

In his post on X, Wangchuk wrote, “I’m Not in good shape but not so bad either…Rather than asking me to break my fast please join me on 20th July… Peaceful March to the Parliament.”

The appeal comes as the Cockroach Janta Party’s (CJP) protest at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi continues. The protest is demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan following the alleged NEET paper leak and the deaths of more than 10 students linked to the controversy.

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While acknowledging that his physical condition has weakened during the fast, Wangchuk indicated that his commitment to the movement remains unchanged. Reports in recent days have also highlighted concerns over his deteriorating health.

Public figures urge Wangchuk to end fast

A number of writers, artists, politicians and other public figures have appealed to Wangchuk to call off his hunger strike while also asking the government to initiate talks with the protesters.

Environmentalist Sonam Wangchuk Enters the 17th Day of Indefinite Hunger Strike
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Sonam Wangchuk refuses to end his fast, calls on supporters to strengthen the movement through a peaceful march | ANI

Several members of the film fraternity, including Omi Vaidya, Arundhati Roy, Naseeruddin Shah, Ratna Pathak Shah and economist Jayati Ghosh, have also expressed support for the movement.

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According to PTI, the group issued a joint statement on Monday, thanking Wangchuk and fellow protesters for their stand while expressing concern over their health.

The statement said, “We salute your sense of purpose, the determination and courage with which you are spearheading this movement for students and youth across this country. We request you to please consider ending this hunger strike immediately in the interests of the longer and more difficult struggle ahead. This battle is a marathon, not a sprint, and we need you, your strength and leadership in the days to come.”

Delhi High Court petition filed

According to The Times of India, a petition has been moved before the Delhi High Court seeking urgent medical intervention for Wangchuk, citing concerns over his worsening health as the indefinite fast continues.

Environmentalist Sonam Wangchuk Enters the 18th Day of Indefinite Hunger Strike
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Environmentalist Sonam Wangchuk Enters the 18th Day of Indefinite Hunger Strike | ANI

Despite growing appeals and legal intervention, Wangchuk has reiterated that the July 20 march should remain peaceful, disciplined and non-violent, urging supporters to carry forward the movement through democratic means.

FAQs:

Why is Sonam Wangchuk on a hunger strike?

Sonam Wangchuk is on an indefinite hunger strike while urging peaceful public participation and raising concerns linked to the ongoing protest.

When is Sonam Wangchuk’s Parliament march scheduled?

Sonam Wangchuk has called for a peaceful march to Parliament on July 20, the opening day of the Monsoon Session.