Prominent activist Sonam Wangchuk has indicated he will conclude his indefinite hunger strike on Monday, July 20, 2026, provided political leaders commit to raising the issue of education system accountability during the upcoming Monsoon Session of Parliament. The announcement was made by his wife, Gitanjali J Angmo, at Jantar Mantar, Delhi, where protests have been ongoing.
Wangchuk, who had been on hunger strike for three weeks at the Citizens for Justice and Peace (CJP) protest site, was shifted to Safdarjung Hospital by Delhi Police on July 18. Angmo clarified that despite the hospital transfer, Wangchuk has continued his fast and refused intravenous fluids, maintaining that his health remains stable.
Demands for Accountability and Reform
The core demands of Wangchuk and the CJP revolve around ensuring accountability in the alleged NEET paper leak case and implementing broader reforms within the education system. The activist's wife conveyed that if political leaders meet Wangchuk at the hospital and assure him of a parliamentary debate on these crucial issues, he will end his protest.
The CJP had planned a 'Chalo Sansad' (March to Parliament) on July 20, coinciding with the opening day of the Monsoon Session. However, Delhi Police have categorically denied permission for any such procession. Prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), which replaces Section 144 of the CrPC, are actively enforced across the New Delhi District, banning unauthorized public assemblies of five or more persons outside designated protest sites like Jantar Mantar.
Call for Peaceful Protest
Ahead of the proposed march, Gitanjali J Angmo also relayed Sonam Wangchuk's message to his supporters, urging them to maintain peace and ensure that the protest is not misused. The agitation has garnered significant support from various opposition leaders and student organizations in recent weeks, with the Delhi High Court monitoring Wangchuk's health through regular status reports.