Abhijeet Dipke, founder of the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP), announced an indefinite hunger strike on Saturday, July 18, 2026, at Jantar Mantar. His decision came shortly after activist Sonam Wangchuk was transferred by Delhi Police to Safdarjung Hospital due to a significant decline in his health.
Wangchuk had been on an indefinite fast since June 28, protesting alleged irregularities in the NEET examination and related student deaths. By Friday, doctors reported that Wangchuk had lost nearly 9.5 kg. Delhi Police stated that Wangchuk's transfer was based on expert medical advice and in compliance with directions from the Delhi High Court, which had been monitoring his health.
Dipke Calls for Continued Protest
Upon commencing his fast, Abhijeet Dipke urged supporters not to retreat. "I am commencing my indefinite hunger strike starting today. I appeal to everyone: do not back down; this movement will only grow larger. They have made a grave mistake... I urge everyone to come to Jantar Mantar; our movement will continue from here, and we will proceed with our march scheduled for July 20th," Dipke stated.
The announcement reignited tensions at the protest site. Police reported a minor commotion during Wangchuk's transfer, with protestors attempting to obstruct the move, though police maintained maximum restraint.
Ongoing Demonstrations and Political Reactions
Despite Wangchuk's hospitalization, protests at Jantar Mantar have continued. Activists from the All India Students' Association (AISA), including Neha, Aameen, and Manish, maintained their hunger strike. AISA members formed a human chain to prevent police from removing these protestors.
The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has strongly criticized the police action. Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Singh alleged that Wangchuk was forcibly shifted without his demands being addressed and claimed police used force against protestors. AAP Delhi president Saurabh Bharadwaj accused police personnel of using white bedsheets to block camera views during the operation, while AAP MLA Sanjeev Jha asserted that such movements cannot be stifled by force or intimidation.
The Delhi High Court had previously issued directives for regular health assessments and medical intervention for Wangchuk as needed. Protestors are now preparing for a planned march to Parliament on July 20th.