Guwahati: Climate activist and education reformer Sonam Wangchuk on Sunday began an indefinite hunger strike at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar, extending support to the ongoing protest led by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) over alleged irregularities in the education system and unresolved concerns related to Ladakh.
Addressing protesters before commencing his fast, Wangchuk said he was joining the agitation after the Centre failed to respond to demands he had raised earlier. He reiterated his call for accountability over issues affecting students as well as the need to address the concerns of the people of Ladakh.
The activist had earlier announced that he would launch the hunger strike if no meaningful action was taken by June 27. His decision follows days of demonstrations at Jantar Mantar, where protesters have been demanding reforms in the education sector and seeking the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over the handling of the NEET controversy.
During his address, Wangchuk urged the government to engage with citizens through dialogue rather than ignore public concerns. He said peaceful democratic protests remain an important means of seeking accountability and resolving national issues.
The CJP protest has continued for several days, drawing participation from students, activists and civil society members. Organisers have organised a series of symbolic events to keep attention focused on their demands, while maintaining that the movement will continue until the government responds.
Wangchuk’s participation has added momentum to the agitation, with supporters describing his fast as an expression of solidarity with students and citizens seeking greater transparency and institutional accountability.
The hunger strike is expected to continue until the government addresses the demands raised by the protesters, organisers said.