July 18, 2026|CoreSignal
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Climate activist and education reformer Sonam Wangchuk was admitted to Delhi’s Safdarjung Hospital on Saturday after completing 21 days of an indefinite hunger strike. The dramatic removal from the protest site at Jantar Mantar, captured on video and widely shared on social media, has triggered fresh political debate and renewed attention to the ongoing protest.
Why Was Sonam Wangchuk on Hunger Strike?
Wangchuk began his indefinite fast on June 28, demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over alleged irregularities in national entrance examinations, including NEET paper leak controversies. The protest also called for greater accountability in the education system and stronger safeguards to restore public confidence in competitive examinations.
Police Remove Wangchuk From Protest Site
Videos circulating online show Delhi Police officers surrounding Wangchuk with large white curtains before escorting him from the protest venue and taking him to Safdarjung Hospital. The visuals have sparked widespread reactions, with supporters questioning the manner in which the activist was removed from the site.
Delhi Police said the decision was taken after doctors expressed concern over Wangchuk’s deteriorating health following three weeks of fasting. Officials maintained that medical intervention was necessary to protect his life and ensure timely treatment.
Shifted to Hospital Amid Deteriorating Health
Delhi Police said Wangchuk was moved to Safdarjung Hospital after medical experts advised immediate intervention. The Delhi High Court had also directed authorities to ensure that his health was continuously monitored and that necessary treatment be provided if his condition worsened.
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Hospital officials later said the 59-year-old activist was weak due to prolonged fasting and dehydration but was stable. Doctors have recommended continuous observation and treatment to help restore his health.
Supporters Allege Forced Removal
The manner in which Wangchuk was taken from the protest site has triggered controversy. Supporters and leaders associated with the protest like CJP head Abhijeet Dipke alleged that he was removed without his consent and criticised the police action.
Delhi Police, however, maintained that the transfer was carried out solely on medical grounds and in accordance with judicial directions aimed at protecting his life.
Protest Movement Continues
Despite Wangchuk’s hospitalisation, the agitation has not ended. Protest organisers have announced that the movement will continue, with demonstrations and a planned march expected to proceed in the coming days. Another protest leader has also begun an indefinite hunger strike in solidarity with Wangchuk.
Political Reactions
The incident has sparked political debate, with opposition leaders accusing the Centre of suppressing peaceful protests. Government authorities have not commented on the political allegations but have maintained that medical intervention was necessary to protect Wangchuk’s health.
What Happens Next?
Doctors are expected to continue monitoring Wangchuk’s condition over the coming days. Meanwhile, attention is likely to remain focused on the ongoing protest movement and the government’s response to demands for greater accountability in India’s examination system.
Despite Sonam Wangchuk’s hospitalisation, organisers have confirmed that the planned march to Parliament on July 20 will go ahead as scheduled. CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke announced that he has begun an indefinite hunger strike following Wangchuk’s removal from the protest site, saying the movement would continue until its demands are addressed.
According to Wangchuk’s wife, Gitanjali Angmo, the activist has continued his hunger strike even after being shifted to Safdarjung Hospital. She also reiterated that the July 20 march has not been called off, urging supporters to participate peacefully in the demonstration.
The proposed march is expected to draw students, civil society groups and supporters from across the country. Organisers say the demonstration will press for accountability over alleged examination irregularities and seek reforms in the education system, while also demanding action on the issues raised during Wangchuk’s 21-day fast. Authorities are expected to deploy additional security personnel in view of the planned mobilisation.
