In a fresh escalation, Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi along with other key Congress leaders were detained by the Delhi Police after they staged a dharna outside PM Modi's residence. This comes a day after thousands hit the streets of Delhi to seek justice for NEET students. As Sonam Wangchuk's fast entered day 24, the Delhi High Court directed him to be shifted to a hospital of his choice.


Rahul Gandhi detained for dharna outside PM's residence, Wangchuk's fast enters day 24

Violence broke out in central Delhi as the Cockroach Janta Party's (CJP) 'Chalo Sansad' march intensified on the opening day of Parliament's Monsoon Session. Police used tear gas and lathis to disperse protesters near Jantar Mantar after demonstrators attempted to march towards Parliament despite prohibitory orders. Security was tightened across the national capital amid fears of further unrest.


Chaos at CJP protests in New Delhi

The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) has made three demands from the Central Government as part of their ongoing protests. These demands are:
- Immediate release of activist Sonam Wangchuk from Safdarjung Hospital.
- Resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.
- Rs 1 crore compensation for the families of NEET aspirants who died by suicide following the NEET 2026 paper leak.

These demands were presented during a meeting with Union Minister JP Nadda, where the CJP representatives reiterated their demands and appealed for the government to address their concerns. The CJP has been leading protests against alleged irregularities in competitive exams and has been demanding accountability from the government.

Breaking: CJP makes three demands from the government

Activist Sonam Wangchuk, currently hospitalized at Safdarjung Hospital following his forced removal from Jantar Mantar, has announced he will end his indefinite hunger strike on July 20, 2026, under specific conditions. 

Wangchuk, who has been protesting against alleged education system failures and exam irregularities, stated he would call off his fast if the government accepts accountability for these issues, or if political leaders assure him that education accountability will be a priority during the Parliament’s Monsoon Session.

Sonam Wangchuk may break fast if assured on education accountability

As supporters of activist Sonam Wangchuk and Cockroach Janta Party reached New Delhi's Jantar Mantar in large numbers for the scheduled “Chalo Sansad” march on Monday (July 20), security has been beefed up across the national capital. The march coincides with the first day of the Monsoon Session of Parliament. While, the Delhi Police said that the permission has not been given for the said march, CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke urged supporters to record everything and warned that the government might try to end the protest forcefully. Meanwhile, activist Sonam Wangchuk has said that he would end his hunger strike if Members of Parliament assure him that the matters related to education will be taken up in the Monsoon Session.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><a href="https://x.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Delhi: Security deployed outside Jantar Mantar in Delhi ahead of reports of a proposed march to Parliament by CJP, today, 20th July. <a href="https://t.co/2h5ND6NBZ3">pic.twitter.com/2h5ND6NBZ3</a>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://x.com/ANI/status/2079003385328701753?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 20, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>What are the security arrangements in place?</h2>The Delhi Police has enforced prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS). Deputy Commissioner of Police (New Delhi) Sachin Sharma said the police had neither received nor granted permission for any such protest march. "Delhi Police categorically clarifies that no permission has been sought or granted for any such protest march/procession," the advisory said. Over 300 police personnel have been stationed near Jantar Mantar and several layers of security screening are in place. At around 3 am, the police were seen removing the barricades from the entry and exit point of the Jantar Mantar. They said it was done expecting a large crowd. Additionally, tear gas vehicles and riot police vehicles have also been stationed. The police has also put up heavy security and has barricaded the entry of the Sansad Marg - the main road leading to the Parliament.&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260720/image-1784514111859.png"></figure>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">🚨The Delhi Police is not just removing barricades, but also removing metal detectors and have SWITCHED OFF the CCTV cameras! Troops are being withdrawn too! What is being planned exactly? <a href="https://t.co/ennj9DQyXR">pic.twitter.com/ennj9DQyXR</a>&mdash; Saurav Das (@SauravDassss) <a href="https://x.com/SauravDassss/status/2078952256125485332?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 19, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>What is 'Chalo Sansad' march?</h2>The CJP called for ‘Chalo Sansad’ march as a part of their larger protest against the paper leaks in NEET examination. They have been demanding the resignation of union education minister Dharmendra Pradhan. Ahead of the march, as more and more people gathered at the Jantar Mantar protest site, CJP) the CJP urged them to maintain discipline and ensure the protest remains peaceful and non-violent. In the march, that is scheduled to begin at 9 am, protesters have been asked to carry only the Indian flag and no political party flags. They have been asked to carry a copy of the Constitution and raise only three slogans — "Bharat Mata Ki Jai," "Dharmendra Pradhan istifa do," and "Inqalab Zindabad."&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/if-my-health-sonam-wangchuk-announces-terms-to-end-his-fast-mentions-nothing-about-parliament-march-1784508545348">Sonam Wangchuk announces terms to end his fast, mentions nothing about Parliament march</a>&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260720/image-1784513976783.png"></figure><h2>Where is Sonam Wangchuk?</h2>Activist Sonam Wangchuk, who joined the CJP in their demand for resignation of the Education Minister, is in Safdarjung hospital. He was forcibly taken tp the hospital by the Delhi police as hi fast entered day 21 and his health worsened. The Delhi Police said that they were complying with a court order that instructed the government to monitor Wangchuk health by government doctors. While Wangchuk and his wife called it “illegal detention”, his wife filed a plea in the Delhi High Court, urging the court to allow her to shift Wangchuk to a private hospital. The plea was rejected. On July 19, Wangchuk urged supporters to join the Parlimaent march calling it a “Second Freedom movement,” but on July 20, he said he would end the march if political leaders including the Members of Parliament meets him and assures him that the matters would be taken up in the Parliament.&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260720/image-1784513873455.png"></figure>&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260720/image-1784513847756.png"></figure><h2>Where is the Education Minister?</h2>Unfazed by the fierce calls for his resignation, Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan shared a post stating that he met NEET UG 2026 AIR 2 Panshul Bansal from Haryana. The minister praised the young achiever's dedication and hard work and shared a picture with him in a post on X. The comment section of Pradhan's post was filled with calls for resignation.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/it-is-illegal-detention-sonam-wangchuk-s-wife-moves-delhi-hc-to-shift-him-from-safdarjung-to-private-hospital-1784446680165">'It is illegal detention...': Sonam Wangchuk's wife moves Delhi HC to shift him from Safdarjung to private hospital</a><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260720/image-1784513829324.png"></figure>

Large crowd gathered at Jantar Mantar for the 'Chalo Sansad' march as Delhi Police deployed heavy security and denied permission. The protest over the NEET paper leak seeks Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation, while Wangchuk says he will end his fast if MPs raise education issues in Parliament.

As supporters of activist Sonam Wangchuk and Cockroach Janta Party reached New Delhi's Jantar Mantar in large numbers for the scheduled “Chalo Sansad” march on Monday (July 20), security has been beefed up across the national capital. The march coincides with the first day of the Monsoon Session of Parliament. While, the Delhi Police said that the permission has not been given for the said march, CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke urged supporters to record everything and warned that the government might try to end the protest forcefully. Meanwhile, activist Sonam Wangchuk has said that he would end his hunger strike if Members of Parliament assure him that the matters related to education will be taken up in the Monsoon Session.

Large crowd gathered at Jantar Mantar for the 'Chalo Sansad' march as Delhi Police deployed heavy security and denied permission. The protest over the NEET paper leak seeks Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation, while Wangchuk says he will end his fast if MPs raise education issues in Parliament.

'Chalo Sansad' march today: Section 163 in force, Delhi Police remove barricades; unfazed Dharmendra Pradhan meets NEET topper

Activist Sonam Wangchuk on Monday (July 20) said that he would end his indefinite hunger strike if the government took accountability for recent failures in the education system or if Members of Parliament (MPs) assured him that the issue would be raised in Parliament. Wangchuk, who is on day 23 of his fast, took to X and outlined three conditions under which he would call off his fast. He said that he would end the fast if CJP members reach the doors of Parliament and MPs assure them to take up the matter in Parliament. He also said that if his health would not allow him to continue his fast till the above happens, he would end it if MPs from other political parties visit him in hospital and assures him that the matter would be taken up in the Parliament. A day ago, Wangchuk's wife, Gitanjali Angmo, also said that her husband would end his hunger strike if political leaders assured him they would raise education accountability in Parliament.&nbsp;In a handwritten note from Safdarjung Hospital, which he said was his “illegal detention”, he said: "Dear friends &amp; supporters, many of you have asked when will I end fast. As mentioned earlier to supporters, I will end my fast on 20th July..." Wangchuk wrote. He was picked two days before the planned march to Parliament on the first day of the Monsoon Session on Monday (July 20). &nbsp;The note, dated July 19, concluded, “From the illegal detention at Safdarjung Hospital, where my freedom of movement, speech and all communication are restricted.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/what-is-wrong-anna-hazare-breaks-silence-on-sonam-wangchuk-s-protest-makes-an-appeal-to-centre-1784420622846">'What is wrong...': Anna Hazare breaks silence on Sonam Wangchuk's protest, makes an appeal to Centre</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">WHEN WILL I END THE FAST….! <a href="https://t.co/R4HQQmycdq">pic.twitter.com/R4HQQmycdq</a>&mdash; Sonam Wangchuk (@Wangchuk66) <a href="https://x.com/Wangchuk66/status/2079000345595011244?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 20, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Meanwhile, a large crowd has gathered at New Delhi's Jantar Mantar for Cockroach Janta Party (CJP)'s 'Sansad Chalo' march. Ahead of the proposed march, the Delhi Police imposed prohibitory orders across the national capital except at the protest site near Jantar Mantar.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/it-is-illegal-detention-sonam-wangchuk-s-wife-moves-delhi-hc-to-shift-him-from-safdarjung-to-private-hospital-1784446680165">'It is illegal detention...': Sonam Wangchuk's wife moves Delhi HC to shift him from Safdarjung to private hospital</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><a href="https://x.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Delhi: &quot;Sonam will end his hunger strike tomorrow if political leaders meet him at Safdarjung hospital and assure him that they will raise the issue of education accountability in this Parliament session and the main issue of this session will be education accountability… <a href="https://t.co/MKQS6RO2d6">pic.twitter.com/MKQS6RO2d6</a>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://x.com/ANI/status/2078894435052728657?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 19, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Wangchuk taken to hospital forcefully</h2>This comes even as Wangchuk, in a handwritten note from Safdarjung on July 19, called for making the march a big success, branding it as the country's "second freedom movement". His message was signed, "Sent through Gitanjali, from my illegal detention at Safdarjung." Wangchuk was removed from the protest site in Jantar Mantar by the Delhi Police on July 18. The Delhi Police claimed that they shifted Wangchuk from the protest site as per a Delhi court's order on monitoring Wangchuk's health by government doctors, however, CJP's Abhijeet Dipke claimed the climate activist was “taken away forcefully.” Wangchuk and CJP are demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over the NEET paper leak scandal.

Activist Sonam Wangchuk said he will end his hunger strike on July 20 if the Centre accepts responsibility for education failures or MPs assure the issue will be raised in Parliament. Delhi Police has denied permission for the planned march to Parliament amid tight security.

Activist Sonam Wangchuk on Monday (July 20) said that he would end his indefinite hunger strike if the government took accountability for recent failures in the education system or if Members of Parliament (MPs) assured him that the issue would be raised in Parliament. Wangchuk, who is on day 23 of his fast, took to X and outlined three conditions under which he would call off his fast. He said that he would end the fast if CJP members reach the doors of Parliament and MPs assure them to take up the matter in Parliament. He also said that if his health would not allow him to continue his fast till the above happens, he would end it if MPs from other political parties visit him in hospital and assures him that the matter would be taken up in the Parliament. A day ago, Wangchuk's wife, Gitanjali Angmo, also said that her husband would end his hunger strike if political leaders assured him they would raise education accountability in Parliament. In a handwritten note from Safdarjung Hospital, which he said was his “illegal detention”, he said: "Dear friends & supporters, many of you have asked when will I end fast. As mentioned earlier to supporters, I will end my fast on 20th July..." Wangchuk wrote. He was picked two days before the planned march to Parliament on the first day of the Monsoon Session on Monday (July 20). The note, dated July 19, concluded, “From the illegal detention at Safdarjung Hospital, where my freedom of movement, speech and all communication are restricted.” Also Read: 'What is wrong...': Anna Hazare breaks silence on Sonam Wangchuk's protest, makes an appeal to Centre

Activist Sonam Wangchuk said he will end his hunger strike on July 20 if the Centre accepts responsibility for education failures or MPs assure the issue will be raised in Parliament. Delhi Police has denied permission for the planned march to Parliament amid tight security.

'If my health...': Sonam Wangchuk announces terms to end his fast, mentions nothing about Parliament march

Delhi High Court denied interim relief to Climate Activist Sonam Wangchuk and refused to transfer him to a private hospital. In an urgent hearing on Sunday, the Delhi High Court announced that he is to remain at Safdarjung Hospital, and termed his forceful removal from his hunger strike at Jantar Mantar as “not arbitrary", given his deteriorating health after weeks of fasting.&nbsp;“Sonam Wangchuk is receiving the required medical care at VMMC and Safdarjung Hospital. His vital parameters are stable. While his blood parameters have shown minor improvement, it requires close monitoring," Safdarjung Hospital authorities said. A multidisciplinary team of experts from Safdarjung Hospital and Delhi AIIMS is supervising his treatment, said a health bulletin issued by the hospital.Justice Mini Pushkarna was hearing a plea by Wanghuk's wife, Gitanjali Angmo, seeking his transfer from the government hospital to a hospital of his choice. She alleged a lack of transparency, as the Safdarjung Hospital refused to share Wangchuk's medical reports.“It cannot be said that any force is being used against Wangchuk, or his bodily autonomy is being violated in any manner,” observed the court. The court issued notice to the centre and directed it to file a report within three days.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nagaland-landslides-mon-district-8-dead-heavy-rain-imd-warning-1784468077738">8 killed, 12 injured in Nagaland landslides as heavy rain batters Mon district</a>"Since doctors at Safdarjung are closely monitoring his health and have only given oral things as per his consent, it can't be said any force is being used against him," the court added. It was informed that Wangchuk's Potassium level has fallen to a dangerously low level, and no intravenous fluid has been administered. The court observed that since he did not register himself, the government's action was within its rights. The court acknowledged the centre's admission that Mr Wamgchuk was not under detention.CJP’s founder, Abhijeet Dipke, sat on an indefinite hunger strike against the activist’s ‘kidnapping’. He had previously warned earlier that the Delhi Police was &nbsp;“planning to crack down on our protest during night or early hours of morning - silencing the voice of youth”. Earlier, Mr Wangchuk described the July 20 Parliament march as India’s “second freedom movement”, calling for “freedom from fear” and “freedom from injustice”. Delhi Police has said that “no permission sought or granted” for the July 20 Parliament protest march.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Delhi High Court denied interim relief to Sonam Wangchuk, refusing his transfer to a private hospital while directing the Centre to file a status report.

Delhi High Court denied interim relief to Climate Activist Sonam Wangchuk and refused to transfer him to a private hospital. In an urgent hearing on Sunday, the Delhi High Court announced that he is to remain at Safdarjung Hospital, and termed his forceful removal from his hunger strike at Jantar Mantar as “not arbitrary", given his deteriorating health after weeks of fasting. “Sonam Wangchuk is receiving the required medical care at VMMC and Safdarjung Hospital. His vital parameters are stable. While his blood parameters have shown minor improvement, it requires close monitoring," Safdarjung Hospital authorities said. A multidisciplinary team of experts from Safdarjung Hospital and Delhi AIIMS is supervising his treatment, said a health bulletin issued by the hospital. Justice Mini Pushkarna was hearing a plea by Wanghuk's wife, Gitanjali Angmo, seeking his transfer from the government hospital to a hospital of his choice. She alleged a lack of transparency, as the Safdarjung Hospital refused to share Wangchuk's medical reports. “It cannot be said that any force is being used against Wangchuk, or his bodily autonomy is being violated in any manner,” observed the court. The court issued notice to the centre and directed it to file a report within three days. Also Read: 8 killed, 12 injured in Nagaland landslides as heavy rain batters Mon district "Since doctors at Safdarjung are closely monitoring his health and have only given oral things as per his consent, it can't be said any force is being used against him," the court added. It was informed that Wangchuk's Potassium level has fallen to a dangerously low level, and no intravenous fluid has been administered. The court observed that since he did not register himself, the government's action was within its rights. The court acknowledged the centre's admission that Mr Wamgchuk was not under detention. CJP’s founder, Abhijeet Dipke, sat on an indefinite hunger strike against the activist’s ‘kidnapping’. He had previously warned earlier that the Delhi Police was “planning to crack down on our protest during night or early hours of morning - silencing the voice of youth”. Earlier, Mr Wangchuk described the July 20 Parliament march as India’s “second freedom movement”, calling for “freedom from fear” and “freedom from injustice”. Delhi Police has said that “no permission sought or granted” for the July 20 Parliament protest march.

The Delhi High Court denied interim relief to Sonam Wangchuk, refusing his transfer to a private hospital while directing the Centre to file a status report.

Delhi HC refuses to shift Sonam Wangchuk from Safdarjung Hospital, denies interim relief

Sonam Wangchuk has escalated his standoff with authorities, calling his hospital stay "illegal detention" and urging supporters to make Monday's Parliament march India's "second freedom movement" — for "freedom from fear" and "freedom from injustice." His wife, Gitanjali Angmo, says around 30 police personnel are stationed on his floor alone, over 100 across the hospital, severely restricting movement. She's moved the Delhi High Court for urgent permission to shift him elsewhere, saying she's "lost faith" in Safdarjung Hospital.


Sonam Wangchuk's wife moves high court, calls for his discharge

Activist Sonam Wangchuk's wife Gitanjali Angmo on Sunday (July 19) sought urgent hearing before the Delhi High Court to shift her fasting husband from Safdarjung Hospital to a private hospital of their choice. Wangchuk, who was taken to Safdarjung Hospital on Saturday morning has refused all intravenous fluids, oral rehydration solutions, and medications.&nbsp;Angmo said that she has lost faith in Safdarjung Hospital as they have not been allowed to shift &nbsp;Wangchuk to another hospital. She also raised questions about the authenticity of medical test reports conducted on Wangchuk and claimed that they were not given a digital copy of those test results. &nbsp;She also claimed that their movement within the premises was severely restricted, with over a hundred cops deployed in the hospital, including 30 personnel on the floor where Wangchuk is admitted.&nbsp;<blockquote>“I have lost faith in Safdarjung Government Hospital….It is not medical care. It is illegal detention...I have therefore moved the High Court and sought an urgent hearing today, praying for permission to shift Sonam before his health deteriorates further," she said in her post. "No family should have to fight the system simply to choose where their loved one receives medical care," she wrote in a social media post.</blockquote>&nbsp;Meanwhile, in a handwritten note from Safdarjung, Wangchuk called for making the march a big success, branding it as the country's "second freedom movement". His message was signed, "Sent through Gitanjali, from my illegal detention at Safdarjung."&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/what-is-wrong-anna-hazare-breaks-silence-on-sonam-wangchuk-s-protest-makes-an-appeal-to-centre-1784420622846">'What is wrong...': Anna Hazare breaks silence on Sonam Wangchuk's protest, makes an appeal to Centre</a>&nbsp;Wangchuk was removed from the protest site in Jantar Mantar on July 18 as his fast entered Day 21. He has been demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over the NEET paper leak scandal and had joined the protest started by Cockroach Jantar Party (CJP). The Delhi Police claimed that they picked up Wangchuk from the protest site to undertake a Delhi High Court order on monitoring Wangchuk's health, however, CJP's Abhijeet Dipke claimed the climate activist was “taken away forcefully.” Visuals from the site showed Delhi police personnel in civil dress picking up Wangchuk and lodging him into police van, while covering him in white sheets. He was picked two days before the planned march to Parliament on the first day of the Monsoon Session on Monday (July 20).&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sonam-wangchuk-s-doctor-raises-suspicion-over-safdarjung-hospital-s-medical-report-wants-him-to-be-shifted-to-another-hospital-1784384142403">Sonam Wangchuk's doctor raises suspicion over Safdarjung Hospital's medical report, wants him to be shifted to another hospital</a><h2>What is hospital's statement?</h2>In a statement, the Safdarjung Hospital said that he remains conscious and clinically stable but is showing signs of dehydration and continues to refuse oral and intravenous fluid therapy despite repeated counselling by doctors, Medical Superintendent Dr Charu Bamba said. While speaking to ANI, Dr Bamba said Wangchuk was admitted to the hospital at around 7.30 am and continues to observe his fast. His vital parameters, including blood pressure, pulse rate and oxygen saturation, are stable, and he is fully conscious and oriented. "He is definitely showing signs of dehydration. He needs treatment. But despite our counselling, he is refusing treatment. He is accepting neither oral rehydration fluid, electrolyte solution, nor IV therapy," she said.

Sonam Wangchuk's wife, Gitanjali Angmo, moved the Delhi HC seeking permission to shift the fasting activist from Safdarjung Hospital to a private facility. She alleged "illegal detention", questioned the hospital's medical reports and said Wangchuk continues to refuse food

Activist Sonam Wangchuk's wife Gitanjali Angmo on Sunday (July 19) sought urgent hearing before the Delhi High Court to shift her fasting husband from Safdarjung Hospital to a private hospital of their choice. Wangchuk, who was taken to Safdarjung Hospital on Saturday morning has refused all intravenous fluids, oral rehydration solutions, and medications. Angmo said that she has lost faith in Safdarjung Hospital as they have not been allowed to shift Wangchuk to another hospital. She also raised questions about the authenticity of medical test reports conducted on Wangchuk and claimed that they were not given a digital copy of those test results. She also claimed that their movement within the premises was severely restricted, with over a hundred cops deployed in the hospital, including 30 personnel on the floor where Wangchuk is admitted. “I have lost faith in Safdarjung Government Hospital….It is not medical care. It is illegal detention...I have therefore moved the High Court and sought an urgent hearing today, praying for permission to shift Sonam before his health deteriorates further," she said in her post. "No family should have to fight the system simply to choose where their loved one receives medical care," she wrote in a social media post. Meanwhile, in a handwritten note from Safdarjung, Wangchuk called for making the march a big success, branding it as the country's "second freedom movement". His message was signed, "Sent through Gitanjali, from my illegal detention at Safdarjung." Also Read: 'What is wrong...': Anna Hazare breaks silence on Sonam Wangchuk's protest, makes an appeal to Centre Wangchuk was removed from the protest site in Jantar Mantar on July 18 as his fast entered Day 21. He has been demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over the NEET paper leak scandal and had joined the protest started by Cockroach Jantar Party (CJP). The Delhi Police claimed that they picked up Wangchuk from the protest site to undertake a Delhi High Court order on monitoring Wangchuk's health, however, CJP's Abhijeet Dipke claimed the climate activist was “taken away forcefully.” Visuals from the site showed Delhi police personnel in civil dress picking up Wangchuk and lodging him into police van, while covering him in white sheets. He was picked two days before the planned march to Parliament on the first day of the Monsoon Session on Monday (July 20). Also Read: Sonam Wangchuk's doctor raises suspicion over Safdarjung Hospital's medical report, wants him to be shifted to another hospital What is hospital's statement? In a statement, the Safdarjung Hospital said that he remains conscious and clinically stable but is showing signs of dehydration and continues to refuse oral and intravenous fluid therapy despite repeated counselling by doctors, Medical Superintendent Dr Charu Bamba said. While speaking to ANI, Dr Bamba said Wangchuk was admitted to the hospital at around 7.30 am and continues to observe his fast. His vital parameters, including blood pressure, pulse rate and oxygen saturation, are stable, and he is fully conscious and oriented. "He is definitely showing signs of dehydration. He needs treatment. But despite our counselling, he is refusing treatment. He is accepting neither oral rehydration fluid, electrolyte solution, nor IV therapy," she said.

Sonam Wangchuk's wife, Gitanjali Angmo, moved the Delhi HC seeking permission to shift the fasting activist from Safdarjung Hospital to a private facility. She alleged "illegal detention", questioned the hospital's medical reports and said Wangchuk continues to refuse food

'It is illegal detention...': Sonam Wangchuk's wife moves Delhi HC to shift him from Safdarjung to private hospital

Social activist Anna Hazare on Saturday (July 19) broke his silence on the hunger strike by educationist and climat activist Sonam Wangchuk. Making an appeal to the Indian government, he urged the Centre to hold talks with the activist and warned them from testing his limits. He opined that discussions should be held on his demands even if there is a difference of opinion. "The government should not test his limits. Say yes or no (to his demands), but what is wrong in holding discussions?" Hazare told news agency PTI.&nbsp;His reaction comes after Wangchuk was removed from the protest site in Jantar Mantar on July 18 as his fast entered Day 21. He has been demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over the NEET paper leak scandal and had joined the protest started by Cockroach Jantar Party (CJP). Hazare's appeal comes years after his own hunger strike in Delhi demanding the Lokpal Act, which rocked the UPA government in 2011. Wangchuk is currently hospitalised in Delhi's Safdarjung Hospital but he has refused to break his fast.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sonam-wangchuk-refuses-intravenous-fluids-wife-says-he-will-continue-hunger-strike-1784374735872">Sonam Wangchuk refuses intravenous fluids; wife says he will continue hunger strike</a><h2>Wangchuk taken to hospital</h2>The Delhi Police claimed that they picked up Wangchuk from the protest site to undertake a Delhi High Court order on monitoring Wangchuk's health, however, CJP's Abhijeet Dipke claimed the climate activist was “taken away forcefully.” Visuals from teh site showed Delhi police personnel in civil dress picking up Wangchuk and lodging him into police van, while covering him in white sheets. He was picked two days before the planned march to Parliament on the first day of the Monsoon Session on Monday (July 20).&nbsp;In a statement, the Safdarjung Hospital said that he remains conscious and clinically stable but is showing signs of dehydration and continues to refuse oral and intravenous fluid therapy despite repeated counselling by doctors, Medical Superintendent Dr Charu Bamba said. While speaking to ANI, Dr Bamba said Wangchuk was admitted to the hospital at around 7.30 am and continues to observe his fast. His vital parameters, including blood pressure, pulse rate and oxygen saturation, are stable, and he is fully conscious and oriented. "He is definitely showing signs of dehydration. He needs treatment. But despite our counselling, he is refusing treatment. He is accepting neither oral rehydration fluid, electrolyte solution, nor IV therapy," she said. &nbsp;Referring to the Delhi High Court's directions, Bamba said AIIMS Additional Professor of Emergency Medicine had joined the treating team, examined Wangchuk and given an expert opinion in line with the hospital's assessment. She said doctors were continuously monitoring Wangchuk and counselling him to accept fluid therapy or oral rehydration solution.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/he-may-die-delhi-hc-wants-centre-s-response-in-plea-seeking-to-force-feed-sonam-wangchuk-big-hearing-tomorrow-1784126143840">'He may die...': Delhi HC wants Indian govt's response in plea seeking to 'force feed' Sonam Wangchuk; BIG hearing tomorrow</a> In a statement on Wangchuk's health issued later in the evening, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said Wangchuk's family had not yet consented to the recommended medical intervention, despite repeated counselling by the treating team and an independent AIIMS expert. The ministry said Wangchuk continued to remain under close medical observation while efforts were being made to persuade him and his family to accept the recommended treatment at the earliest. General physician Dr M. Wali, while commenting on activist Sonam Wangchuk's hunger strike, explained the medical risks of extended fasting and said intervention may be required if ketone levels in the blood rise dangerously. &nbsp;

As Sonam Wangchuk's hunger strike entered 21st day, social activist Anna Hazare urged the Indian government to hold talks with him and not test his limits. Wangchuk is currently in Safdarjung Hospital in Delhi

Social activist Anna Hazare on Saturday (July 19) broke his silence on the hunger strike by educationist and climat activist Sonam Wangchuk. Making an appeal to the Indian government, he urged the Centre to hold talks with the activist and warned them from testing his limits. He opined that discussions should be held on his demands even if there is a difference of opinion. "The government should not test his limits. Say yes or no (to his demands), but what is wrong in holding discussions?" Hazare told news agency PTI. His reaction comes after Wangchuk was removed from the protest site in Jantar Mantar on July 18 as his fast entered Day 21. He has been demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over the NEET paper leak scandal and had joined the protest started by Cockroach Jantar Party (CJP). Hazare's appeal comes years after his own hunger strike in Delhi demanding the Lokpal Act, which rocked the UPA government in 2011. Wangchuk is currently hospitalised in Delhi's Safdarjung Hospital but he has refused to break his fast. Also Read: Sonam Wangchuk refuses intravenous fluids; wife says he will continue hunger strike Wangchuk taken to hospital The Delhi Police claimed that they picked up Wangchuk from the protest site to undertake a Delhi High Court order on monitoring Wangchuk's health, however, CJP's Abhijeet Dipke claimed the climate activist was “taken away forcefully.” Visuals from teh site showed Delhi police personnel in civil dress picking up Wangchuk and lodging him into police van, while covering him in white sheets. He was picked two days before the planned march to Parliament on the first day of the Monsoon Session on Monday (July 20). In a statement, the Safdarjung Hospital said that he remains conscious and clinically stable but is showing signs of dehydration and continues to refuse oral and intravenous fluid therapy despite repeated counselling by doctors, Medical Superintendent Dr Charu Bamba said. While speaking to ANI, Dr Bamba said Wangchuk was admitted to the hospital at around 7.30 am and continues to observe his fast. His vital parameters, including blood pressure, pulse rate and oxygen saturation, are stable, and he is fully conscious and oriented. "He is definitely showing signs of dehydration. He needs treatment. But despite our counselling, he is refusing treatment. He is accepting neither oral rehydration fluid, electrolyte solution, nor IV therapy," she said. Referring to the Delhi High Court's directions, Bamba said AIIMS Additional Professor of Emergency Medicine had joined the treating team, examined Wangchuk and given an expert opinion in line with the hospital's assessment. She said doctors were continuously monitoring Wangchuk and counselling him to accept fluid therapy or oral rehydration solution. Also Read: 'He may die...': Delhi HC wants Indian govt's response in plea seeking to 'force feed' Sonam Wangchuk; BIG hearing tomorrow In a statement on Wangchuk's health issued later in the evening, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said Wangchuk's family had not yet consented to the recommended medical intervention, despite repeated counselling by the treating team and an independent AIIMS expert. The ministry said Wangchuk continued to remain under close medical observation while efforts were being made to persuade him and his family to accept the recommended treatment at the earliest. General physician Dr M. Wali, while commenting on activist Sonam Wangchuk's hunger strike, explained the medical risks of extended fasting and said intervention may be required if ketone levels in the blood rise dangerously.

As Sonam Wangchuk's hunger strike entered 21st day, social activist Anna Hazare urged the Indian government to hold talks with him and not test his limits. Wangchuk is currently in Safdarjung Hospital in Delhi

'What is wrong...': Anna Hazare breaks silence on Sonam Wangchuk's protest, makes an appeal to Centre

In 2011, Arvind Kejriwal stood at Jantar Mantar in Delhi and helped organise a hunger strike that changed Indian politics forever. Fifteen years later, a 30-year-old from Aurangabad, who once managed digital campaigns for Kejriwal's own party, is standing at the same Jantar Mantar, using the same tactics, and the comparisons are no longer deniable.

'Like teacher, like student': 7 things CJP founder repeated from Kejriwal's protest playbook

Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk was shifted to Delhi's Safdarjung Hospital on the 21st day of his hunger strike after his health deteriorated sharply. Doctors reported dangerously low potassium and blood sugar levels due to severe dehydration and recommended immediate treatment with IV fluids. However, Wangchuk has refused IV fluids, oral fluids, and medication. His hospitalisation comes just days before a planned march to Parliament and follows directions from the Delhi High Court to ensure regular medical monitoring.

Sonam Wangchuk hospitalised on 21st day of hunger strike | refuses IV fluids despite critical health

Climate activist and educator Sonam Wangchuk was removed from the protest site at Jantar Mantar early Saturday morning, and shifted to VMMC & Safdarjung Hospital. The move came on the 21st day of his indefinite hunger strike, which he began on June 28 to demand systemic accountability and the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan following alleged irregularities in competitive examinations like NEET-UG.


Sonam Wangchuk's hunger strike enters day 21; activist hospitalized

Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) founder Abhijeet Dipke announced an indefinite hunger strike on Saturday (July 18, 2026) after educator and climate activist Sonam Wangchuk was shifted to a hospital earlier in the morning. The development unfolded after Wangchuk's indefinite hunger strike entered its 21st day on Saturday.&nbsp;In a post on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), CJP informed, “Abhijeet Dipke sits on an indefinite hunger strike. The ‘Chalo Sansad’ march on 20 July will proceed as planned.”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Abhijeet Dipke sits on an indefinite hunger strike. The ‘Chalo Sansad’ march on 20 July will proceed as planned.&mdash; Cockroach is Back (@Cockroachisback) <a href="https://x.com/Cockroachisback/status/2078327125954925043?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 18, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h3>Dipke claims Delhi police forcibly removed protestors</h3>Earlier in the day, CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke claimed on X that he was "beaten up" and "detained" by the police. This comes as on Saturday (Jul 18), Delhi police asked protestors to vacate the Jantar Mantar. Visuals from the protest site show police forcibly clearing out protestors after climate activist Sonam Wangchuk was shifted to a hospital. The CJP claims that "Delhi Police has picked up Sonam Wangchuk forcefully".&nbsp;Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nothing-without-consent-sonam-wangchuk-s-wife-warns-authorities-against-breaking-his-hunger-strike-1784346768622"> ‘Nothing without consent’: Sonam Wangchuk’s wife warns authorities against breaking his hunger strike</a>&nbsp;Supporters of Wangchuk disputed the police version, claiming he was forcibly removed from the protest site.Members of the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), which has been supporting the protest, refused to leave Jantar Mantar after Wangchuk was taken away. Several protesters alleged that Delhi Police "picked up Sonam Wangchuk forcefully" before beginning to clear the site.&nbsp;In another significant development, Sonam Wangchuk’s wife, Gitanjali J Angmo, on Saturday (Jul 18) warned the government against administering anything orally or intravenously to her husband without taking consent from her, his family and his doctors. This comes after Delhi Police said that Wangchuk was taken to the hospital on the 21st day of his hunger strike after his health had deteriorated. Angmo confirmed that the climate activist was admitted to Safdarjung Hospital in Delhi.

CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke began an indefinite hunger strike after climate activist Sonam Wangchuk was hospitalised on day 21 of his own fast. CJP confirmed Dipke's strike on X and stated that the 'Chalo Sansad' march scheduled for July 20 will go ahead.

Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) founder Abhijeet Dipke announced an indefinite hunger strike on Saturday (July 18, 2026) after educator and climate activist Sonam Wangchuk was shifted to a hospital earlier in the morning. The development unfolded after Wangchuk's indefinite hunger strike entered its 21st day on Saturday. In a post on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), CJP informed, “Abhijeet Dipke sits on an indefinite hunger strike. The ‘Chalo Sansad’ march on 20 July will proceed as planned.”

CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke began an indefinite hunger strike after climate activist Sonam Wangchuk was hospitalised on day 21 of his own fast. CJP confirmed Dipke's strike on X and stated that the 'Chalo Sansad' march scheduled for July 20 will go ahead.

Abhijeet Dipke announces indefinite hunger strike after Sonam Wangchuk shifted to hospital

Sonam Wangchuk’s wife, Gitanjali J Angmo, on Saturday (Jul 18) warned the government against administering anything orally or intravenously to her husband without taking consent from her, his family and his doctors. This comes after Delhi Police said that Wangchuk was taken to hospital on the 21st day of his hunger strike after his health had deteriorated. Angmo confirmed that the climate activist was admitted to Safdarjung Hospital in Delhi.In a post on X, Angmo wrote, “I am at Safdarjung Hospital in Delhi where Sonam Wangchuk has been admitted. Nothing should be administered to him orally or intravenously without taking consent from me, his family and his doctors who have been monitoring his health for the past 20 days.”<h2>‘Deteriorating health condition’</h2>In a statement on X, Delhi Police said that Wangchuk has been shifted to a hospital for “essential medical care” on the direction of Delhi High Court.“As per orders of the Hon'ble High Court and on expert medical advice, due to the deteriorating health condition of Sh. Sonam Wangchuk, he has been shifted to the hospital for essential medical care,” Delhi Police said."While complying with the orders of the Hon'ble High Court, the protestors tried to create obstruction, in which slight commotion ensued. However, police exercised maximum restraint and undertook the exercise safely," the statement said.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/dipke-claims-to-have-been-beaten-up-detained-as-delhi-police-forcibly-remove-protestors-from-jantar-mantar-video-1784346107246">Dipke claims to have been 'beaten up, detained' as Delhi police forcibly remove protestors from Jantar Mantar | VIDEO</a><h2>Abhijeet Dipke announces hunger strike</h2>Meanwhile, Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) founder Abhijeet Dipke announced an indefinite hunger strike after Wangchuk was taken to hospital. In a post on X, CJP informed, “Abhijeet Dipke sits on an indefinite hunger strike. The ‘Chalo Sansad’ march on 20 July will proceed as planned.”Earlier, Dipke claimed that he was “beaten up” and “detained” by the police as Delhi police asked protesters to vacate the Jantar Mantar. The CJP claimed that "Delhi Police has picked up Sonam Wangchuk forcefully".

Sonam Wangchuk's wife, Gitanjali J Angmo, urged authorities not to administer oral or IV treatment without consent after the activist was hospitalised on the 21st day of his hunger strike due to worsening health.

Sonam Wangchuk’s wife, Gitanjali J Angmo, on Saturday (Jul 18) warned the government against administering anything orally or intravenously to her husband without taking consent from her, his family and his doctors. This comes after Delhi Police said that Wangchuk was taken to hospital on the 21st day of his hunger strike after his health had deteriorated. Angmo confirmed that the climate activist was admitted to Safdarjung Hospital in Delhi. In a post on X, Angmo wrote, “I am at Safdarjung Hospital in Delhi where Sonam Wangchuk has been admitted. Nothing should be administered to him orally or intravenously without taking consent from me, his family and his doctors who have been monitoring his health for the past 20 days.” ‘Deteriorating health condition’ In a statement on X, Delhi Police said that Wangchuk has been shifted to a hospital for “essential medical care” on the direction of Delhi High Court. “As per orders of the Hon'ble High Court and on expert medical advice, due to the deteriorating health condition of Sh. Sonam Wangchuk, he has been shifted to the hospital for essential medical care,” Delhi Police said. "While complying with the orders of the Hon'ble High Court, the protestors tried to create obstruction, in which slight commotion ensued. However, police exercised maximum restraint and undertook the exercise safely," the statement said. Also read | Dipke claims to have been 'beaten up, detained' as Delhi police forcibly remove protestors from Jantar Mantar | VIDEO Abhijeet Dipke announces hunger strike Meanwhile, Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) founder Abhijeet Dipke announced an indefinite hunger strike after Wangchuk was taken to hospital. In a post on X, CJP informed, “Abhijeet Dipke sits on an indefinite hunger strike. The ‘Chalo Sansad’ march on 20 July will proceed as planned.” Earlier, Dipke claimed that he was “beaten up” and “detained” by the police as Delhi police asked protesters to vacate the Jantar Mantar. The CJP claimed that "Delhi Police has picked up Sonam Wangchuk forcefully".

Sonam Wangchuk's wife, Gitanjali J Angmo, urged authorities not to administer oral or IV treatment without consent after the activist was hospitalised on the 21st day of his hunger strike due to worsening health.

‘Nothing without consent’: Sonam Wangchuk’s wife warns authorities against breaking his hunger strike

Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) founder Abhijeet Dipke on X has claimed that he was "beaten up" and "detained" by the police. This comes as on Saturday (Jul 18) Delhi police asked protestors to vacate the Jantar Mantar. Visuals from the protest site show police forcibly clearing out protestors after climate activist Sonam Wangchuk was shifted to a hospital. The CJP claims that "Delhi Police has picked up Sonam Wangchuk forcefully".Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/can-sonam-wangchuk-be-forced-to-eat-like-irom-sharmila-supreme-court-on-preserving-life-of-person-on-indefinite-fast-wion-decodes-1784265045185">Can the government force-feed Sonam Wangchuk like it did Irom Sharmila? Here's what the law says about hunger strikes | WION Decodes</a><h2>Protesters allege Wangchuk was taken away by force</h2>Supporters of Wangchuk disputed the police version, claiming he was forcibly removed from the protest site.Members of the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), which has been supporting the protest, refused to leave Jantar Mantar after Wangchuk was taken away.Several protesters alleged that Delhi Police "picked up Sonam Wangchuk forcefully" before beginning to clear the site.Abhijeet Dipke, founder of the Cockroach Janta Party, later claimed on X that he had been assaulted and detained during the police action. "I have been beaten up and put under detention by Delhi Police," Dipke posted. There was no immediate response from the Delhi Police to Dipke's allegation.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) volunteers refuse to vacate protest site at Jantar Mantar, as Delhi Police takes Sonam Wangchuk to hospital following court orders on day 21 of his hunger strike (Credits: @SauravDassss/X) <a href="https://t.co/5flWyF9zi9">pic.twitter.com/5flWyF9zi9</a>&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://x.com/WIONews/status/2078321635476775059?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 18, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sonam-wangchuk-hospitalised-as-health-deteriorates-after-20-day-hunger-strike-says-delhi-police-1784342146233">Sonam Wangchuk hospitalised as health deteriorates after 20-day hunger strike; Delhi Police asks protestors to 'peacefully' vacate Jantar Mantar</a><h2>Visuals show protestors being dragged away from protest site</h2>On Saturday morning, Delhi Police, in its statement on X, asked protestors to “peacefully vacate” Jantar Mantar. However, videos shared by protestors from the protest site show protestors being dragged away by the police.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Delhi: Protesters are being cleared from the Jantar Mantar protest site after activist Sonam Wangchuk, who had been on a hunger strike there for the past 20 days, was taken to a hospital by Delhi Police for medical treatment (Video: ANI) <a href="https://t.co/cFrDtBfNjK">pic.twitter.com/cFrDtBfNjK</a>&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://x.com/WIONews/status/2078318730887745627?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 18, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">&#39;Delhi Police picked up Sonam Wangchuk forcefully,&#39; allege protesters (Credits: @SauravDassss/X) <a href="https://t.co/PpjExNPWeL">pic.twitter.com/PpjExNPWeL</a>&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://x.com/WIONews/status/2078317959119020481?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 18, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">New Delhi: Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) founding president Abhijeet Dipke said the movement would continue despite activist Sonam Wangchuk being taken to hospital, asserting that protesters would march to Parliament on July 20 Dipke added that the party would now seek Prime… <a href="https://t.co/OstBy7CzQ7">pic.twitter.com/OstBy7CzQ7</a>&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://x.com/WIONews/status/2078323570095370380?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 18, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The developments came hours after Dipke alleged that unidentified individuals had tried to attack Wangchuk during the protest.According to Dipke, an object was thrown towards the activist, although Wangchuk was not injured. He also accused authorities of failing to prevent repeated attempts to disrupt the demonstration.

Cockroach Janta Party founder Abhijeet Dipke has alleged that he was assaulted and detained by Delhi Police during the clearance of protesters from Jantar Mantar after Sonam Wangchuk was shifted to hospital, claims that police had not publicly responded to at the time of publication.

Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) founder Abhijeet Dipke on X has claimed that he was "beaten up" and "detained" by the police. This comes as on Saturday (Jul 18) Delhi police asked protestors to vacate the Jantar Mantar. Visuals from the protest site show police forcibly clearing out protestors after climate activist Sonam Wangchuk was shifted to a hospital. The CJP claims that "Delhi Police has picked up Sonam Wangchuk forcefully". Also read | Can the government force-feed Sonam Wangchuk like it did Irom Sharmila? Here's what the law says about hunger strikes | WION Decodes Protesters allege Wangchuk was taken away by force Supporters of Wangchuk disputed the police version, claiming he was forcibly removed from the protest site. Members of the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), which has been supporting the protest, refused to leave Jantar Mantar after Wangchuk was taken away. Several protesters alleged that Delhi Police "picked up Sonam Wangchuk forcefully" before beginning to clear the site. Abhijeet Dipke, founder of the Cockroach Janta Party, later claimed on X that he had been assaulted and detained during the police action. "I have been beaten up and put under detention by Delhi Police," Dipke posted. There was no immediate response from the Delhi Police to Dipke's allegation.

Cockroach Janta Party founder Abhijeet Dipke has alleged that he was assaulted and detained by Delhi Police during the clearance of protesters from Jantar Mantar after Sonam Wangchuk was shifted to hospital, claims that police had not publicly responded to at the time of publication.

Dipke claims to have been 'beaten up, detained' as Delhi police forcibly remove protestors from Jantar Mantar | VIDEO

Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk was shifted to a hospital on Friday (Jul 17) night after Delhi Police said his health had deteriorated during his indefinite hunger strike at Jantar Mantar. In a statement, police said the decision was taken on the advice of medical experts and in compliance with directions issued by the Delhi High Court. However, protestors from the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) claim that "Delhi Police has picked up Sonam Wangchuk forcefully".&nbsp;In a statement on X, Delhi Police said, “As per orders of the Hon'ble High Court and on expert medical advice, due to the deteriorating health condition of Sh. Sonam Wangchuk, he has been shifted to the hospital for essential medical care.”Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sonam-wangchuk-attacked-on-day-20-of-hunger-strike-object-thrown-at-activist-alleged-cockroach-janta-party-s-abhijeet-dipke-watch-1784339088172">Sonam Wangchuk attacked on Day 20 of hunger strike? 'Object thrown at' activist alleges Cockroach Janta Party's Abhijeet Dipke | Watch</a><h2>Protestors tried to stop police from shifting Wangchuk to hospital</h2>Police said some protesters attempted to prevent the transfer, leading to a brief commotion at the protest site."While complying with the orders of the Hon'ble High Court, the protestors tried to create obstruction, in which slight commotion ensued. However, police exercised maximum restraint and undertook the exercise safely," the statement said.Authorities also appealed to demonstrators to peacefully vacate Jantar Mantar.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">As per orders of Hon’ble High Court and on expert medical advise due to the deteriorating health condition of Sh. Sonam Wangchuk, he has been shifted to the hospital for essential medical care. While complying with the orders of Hon’ble High Court the protestors tried to create…&mdash; DCP New Delhi (@DCPNewDelhi) <a href="https://x.com/DCPNewDelhi/status/2078302425421889690?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 18, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sonam-wangchuk-attacked-on-day-20-of-hunger-strike-object-thrown-at-activist-alleged-cockroach-janta-party-s-abhijeet-dipke-watch-1784339088172">Sonam Wangchuk attacked on Day 20 of hunger strike? 'Object thrown at' activist alleges Cockroach Janta Party's Abhijeet Dipke | Watch</a><h2>Wangchuk admitted to Safdarjung hospital</h2>In a statement on X, Sonam Wangchuk's wife Gitanjali J Angmo, revealed that the climate activist has been admitted to Safdarjung hospital. She warned authorities that nothing should be done to break Wangchuk's fast forcibly. “Nothing should be administered to him orally or intravenous without take consent from me, his family and his doctors who have been monitoring his health for the past 20 days,” she said.&nbsp;

Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk was shifted to a hospital after Delhi Police said his health had deteriorated during his indefinite hunger strike, adding that the transfer was carried out on medical advice and in compliance with Delhi HC directions.

Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk was shifted to a hospital on Friday (Jul 17) night after Delhi Police said his health had deteriorated during his indefinite hunger strike at Jantar Mantar. In a statement, police said the decision was taken on the advice of medical experts and in compliance with directions issued by the Delhi High Court. However, protestors from the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) claim that "Delhi Police has picked up Sonam Wangchuk forcefully". In a statement on X, Delhi Police said, “As per orders of the Hon'ble High Court and on expert medical advice, due to the deteriorating health condition of Sh. Sonam Wangchuk, he has been shifted to the hospital for essential medical care.” Also read | Sonam Wangchuk attacked on Day 20 of hunger strike? 'Object thrown at' activist alleges Cockroach Janta Party's Abhijeet Dipke | Watch Protestors tried to stop police from shifting Wangchuk to hospital Police said some protesters attempted to prevent the transfer, leading to a brief commotion at the protest site. "While complying with the orders of the Hon'ble High Court, the protestors tried to create obstruction, in which slight commotion ensued. However, police exercised maximum restraint and undertook the exercise safely," the statement said. Authorities also appealed to demonstrators to peacefully vacate Jantar Mantar.

Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk was shifted to a hospital after Delhi Police said his health had deteriorated during his indefinite hunger strike, adding that the transfer was carried out on medical advice and in compliance with Delhi HC directions.

Sonam Wangchuk hospitalised as health deteriorates after 20-day hunger strike; Delhi Police asks protestors to 'peacefully' vacate Jantar Mantar

Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk's ongoing hunger strike at Delhi's Jantar Mantar has been hit by fresh controversy after a fellow protester alleged that unidentified individuals attempted to attack him during the demonstration. Abhijeet Dipke, founder of the Cockroach Janta Party and one of the organisers supporting the protest, claimed on Friday (Jul 17) that an object was thrown towards Wangchuk.<h2>Was Sonam Wangchuk injured in the attack?</h2>Dipke said that Wangchuk was unharmed and accused authorities of failing to prevent repeated attempts to disrupt what he described as a peaceful protest. "Goons tried to attack Sonam sir at Jantar Mantar. An object was thrown at him, but fortunately, he was not hurt," Dipke said in a statement on X.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Goons tried to attack Sonam sir at Jantar Mantar. An object was thrown at him, but fortunately, he was not hurt. A few days ago, I had warned that people would be sent to Jantar Mantar to disrupt the protest after I was informed by an insider in the police. If anything happens…&mdash; Abhijeet Dipke (@abhijeet_dipke) <a href="https://x.com/abhijeet_dipke/status/2078181531743629689?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 17, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/can-sonam-wangchuk-be-forced-to-eat-like-irom-sharmila-supreme-court-on-preserving-life-of-person-on-indefinite-fast-wion-decodes-1784265045185">Can the government force-feed Sonam Wangchuk like it did Irom Sharmila? Here's what the law says about hunger strikes | WION Decodes</a>He further alleged that he had earlier received information from a police insider warning that people could be sent to the protest site to create disturbances. Blaming the government for the alleged attack, Dipke said, "If anything happens to Sonam sir, the government will be responsible as there's clearly a plan to dismantle the peaceful protest at Jantar Mantar."

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Today, there were multiple incidents where people created disturbances, yet the police failed to respond for hours. By allowing this to continue, they are enabling attempts to disrupt what has remained a peaceful protest. <a href="https://t.co/bDfppmtedE">https://t.co/bDfppmtedE</a>&mdash; Abhijeet Dipke (@abhijeet_dipke) <a href="https://x.com/abhijeet_dipke/status/2078188027545808952?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 17, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

He also alleged that multiple incidents of disruption took place during the day, but said police did not intervene for several hours.As of Saturday (Jul 18) morning, Delhi Police had not publicly confirmed the alleged incident or responded to the claims.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://x.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Delhi | Founding President of the Cockroach Janta Party, Abhijeet Dipke alleges that activist Sonam Wangchuk, who is on a hunger strike was attacked at Jantar Mantar (Visuals shot at around 11.30 pm last night) <a href="https://t.co/WV0kzVOTZW">pic.twitter.com/WV0kzVOTZW</a>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://x.com/ANI/status/2078251900303184276?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 17, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Wangchuk enters 21st day of hunger strike</h2>The incident comes as Wangchuk entered the 21st consecutive day of his indefinite hunger strike, launched to demand the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan*over the NEET-UG paper leak controversy and other alleged examination irregularities.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/we-share-the-anguish-congress-appeals-to-sonam-wangchuk-to-end-fast-even-as-rahul-gandhi-remains-missing-from-jantar-mantar-protest-1784252531651">'We share the anguish...': Congress appeals to Sonam Wangchuk to end fast, even as Rahul Gandhi remains missing from Jantar Mantar</a>Doctors monitoring the activist have expressed concern over his deteriorating health.<h2>Wangchuk continues to weaken, loses weight</h2>According to medical updates released on Friday, Wangchuk's weight had fallen to 56.55 kg, down by another 350 grams in just 24 hours. His blood pressure was recorded at 108/68 mmHg, blood sugar was at 70 mg/dL, while doctors noted mild dehydration.Dr Satish Lamba, part of the medical team monitoring Wangchuk, said the prolonged fast had entered a stage where vital organs could begin to be affected. "When the body does not receive glucose, proteins and carbohydrates, changes occur. Initially, there is fat loss, followed by muscle loss. Now, at this third stage, organ involvement is possible. The medical team is maintaining 24-hour vigilance," he said.&nbsp;

Abhijeet Dipke claims that unidentified individuals threw an object at Sonam Wangchuk during his hunger strike at Jantar Mantar. Cockroach Janta Party alleges “there’s clearly a plan to dismantle the peaceful protest at Jantar Mantar”.

Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk's ongoing hunger strike at Delhi's Jantar Mantar has been hit by fresh controversy after a fellow protester alleged that unidentified individuals attempted to attack him during the demonstration. Abhijeet Dipke, founder of the Cockroach Janta Party and one of the organisers supporting the protest, claimed on Friday (Jul 17) that an object was thrown towards Wangchuk. Was Sonam Wangchuk injured in the attack? Dipke said that Wangchuk was unharmed and accused authorities of failing to prevent repeated attempts to disrupt what he described as a peaceful protest. "Goons tried to attack Sonam sir at Jantar Mantar. An object was thrown at him, but fortunately, he was not hurt," Dipke said in a statement on X.

Abhijeet Dipke claims that unidentified individuals threw an object at Sonam Wangchuk during his hunger strike at Jantar Mantar. Cockroach Janta Party alleges “there’s clearly a plan to dismantle the peaceful protest at Jantar Mantar”.

Sonam Wangchuk attacked on Day 20 of hunger strike? 'Object thrown at' activist alleges Cockroach Janta Party's Abhijeet Dipke | Watch

As climate activist Sonam Wangchuk's indefinite hunger strike at New Delhi's Jantar Mantar entered its 20th day, concerns over his health continued to grow, with the 59-year-old vowing to remain committed to the movement until the planned Parliament march on July 20.&nbsp;Wangchuk, who has already lost around 9 kg since beginning his fast on June 28, delivered an emotional message to supporters of the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP), saying he would remain with them even if he did not survive.&nbsp;"Will you all walk with me? Promise? Then, even I will stay alive somehow till July 20. If you don't come and if July 20 is not successful, then I will return as a ghost," Wangchuk said.&nbsp;His remarks came ahead of the first day of the Monsoon Session of Parliament, when the CJP and its supporters plan to march to Parliament. The group is seeking justice for students who allegedly died by suicide following the cancellation of the NEET UG examination conducted on May 3 after a large-scale paper leak.&nbsp;Although a re-examination was held on June 21 and the results have since been declared, the protesters continue to demand accountability from the Narendra Modi-led government and are seeking the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.&nbsp;Wangchuk, who has remained a prominent face of the movement for Ladakh's rights, was detained under the National Security Act on September 26 last year. Authorities accused him of inciting violence in the Union Territory that left at least four people dead. He was released from jail 170 days later in March this year.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/as-sonam-wangchuk-s-protest-enters-20th-day-his-father-s-1984-fast-that-brought-indira-gandhi-to-leh-returns-to-focus-1784310151803">As Sonam Wangchuk's protest enters 20th day, his father's 1984 fast that brought Indira Gandhi to Leh returns to focus</a>&nbsp;Several political leaders have visited Wangchuk in recent days, urging him to end his hunger strike while calling on the government to open a dialogue with the protesters.&nbsp;NCP SP working president Supriya Sule met Wangchuk on Friday and assured him that concerns raised by NEET students would be taken up during the upcoming Parliament session.&nbsp;Congress media and communications chairman Pawan Khera also visited Jantar Mantar and appealed to Wangchuk to end his fast. Accusing the government of being callous, he urged the Centre to engage with the protesters.&nbsp;The matter has also reached the Delhi High Court. While hearing a public interest litigation expressing concern over Wangchuk's health, the court directed authorities to monitor his condition daily and provide medical intervention whenever required. It observed that every effort must be made to save the life of a citizen.&nbsp;Despite mounting political appeals and growing concerns over his health, Wangchuk has refused to call off his hunger strike. He has maintained that ending the fast without any response from the government would defeat the purpose of the movement and has urged supporters to focus on making the July 20 Parliament march a success.

Sonam Wangchuk has refused to end his 20 day hunger strike despite mounting health concerns and political appeals, urging supporters to make the July 20 Parliament march a success.

As climate activist Sonam Wangchuk's indefinite hunger strike at New Delhi's Jantar Mantar entered its 20th day, concerns over his health continued to grow, with the 59-year-old vowing to remain committed to the movement until the planned Parliament march on July 20. Wangchuk, who has already lost around 9 kg since beginning his fast on June 28, delivered an emotional message to supporters of the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP), saying he would remain with them even if he did not survive. "Will you all walk with me? Promise? Then, even I will stay alive somehow till July 20. If you don't come and if July 20 is not successful, then I will return as a ghost," Wangchuk said. His remarks came ahead of the first day of the Monsoon Session of Parliament, when the CJP and its supporters plan to march to Parliament. The group is seeking justice for students who allegedly died by suicide following the cancellation of the NEET UG examination conducted on May 3 after a large-scale paper leak. Although a re-examination was held on June 21 and the results have since been declared, the protesters continue to demand accountability from the Narendra Modi-led government and are seeking the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. Wangchuk, who has remained a prominent face of the movement for Ladakh's rights, was detained under the National Security Act on September 26 last year. Authorities accused him of inciting violence in the Union Territory that left at least four people dead. He was released from jail 170 days later in March this year. Also Read: As Sonam Wangchuk's protest enters 20th day, his father's 1984 fast that brought Indira Gandhi to Leh returns to focus Several political leaders have visited Wangchuk in recent days, urging him to end his hunger strike while calling on the government to open a dialogue with the protesters. NCP SP working president Supriya Sule met Wangchuk on Friday and assured him that concerns raised by NEET students would be taken up during the upcoming Parliament session. Congress media and communications chairman Pawan Khera also visited Jantar Mantar and appealed to Wangchuk to end his fast. Accusing the government of being callous, he urged the Centre to engage with the protesters. The matter has also reached the Delhi High Court. While hearing a public interest litigation expressing concern over Wangchuk's health, the court directed authorities to monitor his condition daily and provide medical intervention whenever required. It observed that every effort must be made to save the life of a citizen. Despite mounting political appeals and growing concerns over his health, Wangchuk has refused to call off his hunger strike. He has maintained that ending the fast without any response from the government would defeat the purpose of the movement and has urged supporters to focus on making the July 20 Parliament march a success.

Sonam Wangchuk has refused to end his 20-day hunger strike despite mounting health concerns and political appeals, urging supporters to make the July 20 Parliament march a success.

'I will return as a ghost': Sonam Wangchuk warns as fast enters 20th day, stays firm on Parliament march | Gravitas

As Sonam Wangchuk's fast at Jantar Mantar enters its 20th day, with several public figures and political parties, including the Congress, urging him to end the hunger strike, the ongoing protest has drawn attention to a similar agitation once led by his father that prompted then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi to intervene.&nbsp;The CJP's protest demanding the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over the recent NEET paper leak, leading to multiple aspirants committing suicide and wider concerns regarding the state of the education system in the country, has now entered its 28th day, with the July 20 "Sansad Chalo" march to Parliament emerging as the movement's next major mobilisation.&nbsp;"I will stay alive by any means until July 20 so that I can march to Parliament with all of you. And if our march doesn't succeed on July 20, then I'll come back as a ghost," Wangchuk told supporters.&nbsp;Meanwhile, the environmental activist's health has continued to decline, with more than 9 kg of weight lost since the fast began. According to a health update released on Thursday, the 59-year-old's blood pressure stood at 105/61 mmHg, blood sugar at 80 mg/dL, and oxygen saturation at 97%. Doctors said he remains conscious and mentally alert but requires continuous medical monitoring.&nbsp;The Delhi High Court directed the Delhi government and the Centre to monitor his condition and ensure medical assistance if his health worsens.&nbsp;CJP spokesperson Saurav Das also referred to the episode involving Indira Gandhi and Sonam Wangyal in a post on X. “The government must learn how to respond and accept accountability,” he wrote&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/earthquake-of-magnitude-7-4-jolts-mexico-tsunami-warning-issued-1784301406792">Earthquake of magnitude 7.3 jolts Mexico, tsunami warning issued</a><h2>What happened in 1984</h2>Sonam Wangyal, the father of activist Sonam Wangchuk, played a prominent role in Jammu and Kashmir politics for decades. He was a member of the Legislative Council from 1957 to 1967 before winning Assembly elections in 1967 and 1972 as a Congress leader. He later joined the Jammu and Kashmir Cabinet in 1975 and remained associated with both the Congress and the National Conference while campaigning for Scheduled Tribe status for Ladakh's communities.&nbsp;His campaign reached a turning point in 1984 when he launched a five-day hunger strike, pressing the Centre to grant Scheduled Tribe status along with reservation benefits and other welfare measures for the region.&nbsp;The protest drew the attention of then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, who travelled to Leh and convinced Wangyal to call off the fast after assuring him that his demands would be addressed. However, she was assassinated later that year by her bodyguards following Operation Bluestar at the Golden Temple in Amritsar.&nbsp;The promised action did not come immediately. It was only in 1989 that the President issued the Constitution (Jammu and Kashmir) Scheduled Tribes Order, extending Scheduled Tribe status to eight communities. During the course of the movement, Wangyal was expelled from the Congress in 1987 over what the party described as anti-party activities. He died in 1998.

As Sonam Wangchuk's hunger strike enters its 20th day, attention has turned to his father Sonam Wangyal's 1984 fast, which prompted then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi to intervene over Ladakh's Scheduled Tribe status demand.

As Sonam Wangchuk's fast at Jantar Mantar enters its 20th day, with several public figures and political parties, including the Congress, urging him to end the hunger strike, the ongoing protest has drawn attention to a similar agitation once led by his father that prompted then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi to intervene. The CJP's protest demanding the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over the recent NEET paper leak, leading to multiple aspirants committing suicide and wider concerns regarding the state of the education system in the country, has now entered its 28th day, with the July 20 "Sansad Chalo" march to Parliament emerging as the movement's next major mobilisation. "I will stay alive by any means until July 20 so that I can march to Parliament with all of you. And if our march doesn't succeed on July 20, then I'll come back as a ghost," Wangchuk told supporters. Meanwhile, the environmental activist's health has continued to decline, with more than 9 kg of weight lost since the fast began. According to a health update released on Thursday, the 59-year-old's blood pressure stood at 105/61 mmHg, blood sugar at 80 mg/dL, and oxygen saturation at 97%. Doctors said he remains conscious and mentally alert but requires continuous medical monitoring. The Delhi High Court directed the Delhi government and the Centre to monitor his condition and ensure medical assistance if his health worsens. CJP spokesperson Saurav Das also referred to the episode involving Indira Gandhi and Sonam Wangyal in a post on X. “The government must learn how to respond and accept accountability,” he wrote Also Read: Earthquake of magnitude 7.3 jolts Mexico, tsunami warning issued What happened in 1984 Sonam Wangyal, the father of activist Sonam Wangchuk, played a prominent role in Jammu and Kashmir politics for decades. He was a member of the Legislative Council from 1957 to 1967 before winning Assembly elections in 1967 and 1972 as a Congress leader. He later joined the Jammu and Kashmir Cabinet in 1975 and remained associated with both the Congress and the National Conference while campaigning for Scheduled Tribe status for Ladakh's communities. His campaign reached a turning point in 1984 when he launched a five-day hunger strike, pressing the Centre to grant Scheduled Tribe status along with reservation benefits and other welfare measures for the region. The protest drew the attention of then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, who travelled to Leh and convinced Wangyal to call off the fast after assuring him that his demands would be addressed. However, she was assassinated later that year by her bodyguards following Operation Bluestar at the Golden Temple in Amritsar. The promised action did not come immediately. It was only in 1989 that the President issued the Constitution (Jammu and Kashmir) Scheduled Tribes Order, extending Scheduled Tribe status to eight communities. During the course of the movement, Wangyal was expelled from the Congress in 1987 over what the party described as anti-party activities. He died in 1998.

As Sonam Wangchuk's hunger strike enters its 20th day, attention has turned to his father Sonam Wangyal's 1984 fast, which prompted then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi to intervene over Ladakh's Scheduled Tribe status demand.

As Sonam Wangchuk's protest enters 20th day, his father's 1984 fast that brought Indira Gandhi to Leh returns to focus

Sonam Wangchuk continues to dominate the headlines today (Jul 17) as his Anshan (fast unto death) enters day 20. As the climate activist's hunger strike crosses the critical 20-day mark, doctors are warning of imminent organ damage. The escalating crisis raises an uncomfortable, historical question: Can the government legally force-feed a protester?Ten years ago, the answer seemed simple. For nearly 16 years, Manipuri activist Irom Sharmila was repeatedly arrested and kept alive through a nasogastric tube inserted into her nose to break her protest against the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA). But on Thursday (July 16, 2026), the Delhi High Court ordered daily medical monitoring for Wangchuk while stopping short of ordering force-feeding. Today, India’s legal framework has fundamentally shifted.The Delhi High Court's order suggests it isn't that straightforward anymore. If a person's life is at risk, can the government legally force them to eat? The answer is more complicated than a simple yes or no. What does the law say? Let's Decode.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/we-share-the-anguish-congress-appeals-to-sonam-wangchuk-to-end-fast-even-as-rahul-gandhi-remains-missing-from-jantar-mantar-protest-1784252531651">'We share the anguish...': Congress appeals to Sonam Wangchuk to end fast, even as Rahul Gandhi remains missing from Jantar Mantar</a><h2>Saving a life isn't the same as ending a protest</h2>Over the years, courts have steadily moved away from treating hunger strikes as something the state must immediately break. The focus today is different. Keep the person alive, yes. But don't crush the protest in the process.The petition before the Delhi High Court wasn't really about the demands Wangchuk is making. It was about what the government should do now that his health is worsening.The judges recorded the Centre's assurance that government doctors were already examining him every day. They directed that this should continue and that doctors should intervene medically whenever necessary. What was striking was what the order left unsaid. There was no instruction permitting force-feeding. Why?<h2>Supreme Court, Anshan and force feeding</h2>The Supreme Court has dealt with this before. A similar dilemma arose during Punjab farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal's indefinite fast in 2024.When Dallewal's indefinite fast had stretched beyond three weeks, prompting concerns about his health, a SC bench headed by Justice Surya Kant, reminded both the Punjab government and the Centre that protecting a person's life was their "bounden duty". It directed authorities to ensure Dallewal received immediate medical attention, while making it equally clear that he should not be compelled to abandon his fast unless doing so became absolutely necessary to save his life.The message was straightforward: The state cannot watch someone die. But neither can it casually override the decision of a competent adult who has chosen to protest by refusing food.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/make-sonam-wangchuk-education-minister-kejriwal-visits-jantar-mantar-warns-bjp-of-2014-like-fate-1784217796653">'Make Sonam Wangchuk Education Minister': Kejriwal warns BJP of '2014-like fate'</a><h2>Irom Sharmila's hunger strike and government force-feeding</h2>Mention hunger strikes in India, and one name inevitably comes up. Irom Sharmila. Her case unfolded under a very different law.Back then, attempting suicide was still an offence under Section 309 of the Indian Penal Code. Authorities repeatedly arrested Sharmila, admitted her to the hospital and kept her alive through force-feeding administered via a nasogastric tube.Notably, today's legal framework looks very different.<h2>What does Indian law say about hunger strike vs suicide attempt</h2>With the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita replacing the IPC, attempted suicide is no longer a criminal offence. Courts have also become far more protective of bodily autonomy and individual choice than they were two decades ago.However, that doesn't mean the state can simply walk away. It means its first instinct is expected to be medical care and dialogue, not coercion.<h2>2011 Ramdev hunger strike: The "talk first" mandate</h2>That idea runs through one of the Supreme Court's better-known judgments on protests. In June 2011, Baba Ramdev observed a peaceful anti-corruption and anti-black money protest at New Delhi's Ramlila Maidan. He announced that he would remain on an indefinite fast. However, just one day into the hunger strike, a midnight police crackdown ended with him being evicted from the protest site. He eventually continued the hunger strike at his Patanjali Yogpeeth ashram in Haridwar, Uttarakhand. &nbsp;Taking suo motu cognisance of the midnight police crackdown, the Supreme Court, in its judgement, underscored that the Executive must not adopt a hostile stance against hunger strikers. It highlighted that the state must proactively reach out, engage, and peacefully persuade individuals to protect their lives rather than use immediate force.The judgment noted how the then-prime minister Manmohan Singh wrote to him, senior ministers met him, and discussions continued in an attempt to persuade him to call off the fast. The court saw those efforts as significant.Governments, it suggested, should engage with protesters instead of immediately treating a hunger strike as a law-and-order problem. Peaceful fasting, after all, has long occupied a special place in India's democratic tradition, shaped by Mahatma Gandhi's satyagraha.Notably, the Prime Minister Narendra Modi government is yet to engage with Sonam Wangchuk or the Cockroach Janata Party.<h2>So, can Wangchuk be forced to eat?</h2>If you're looking for a simple yes or no, the courts haven't given one. What they have done is draw a line. The government has a responsibility to prevent a death if a hunger strike reaches that point. But judges have become increasingly reluctant to endorse force-feeding simply because someone has chosen to protest through fasting.That explains why the Delhi High Court's order in Wangchuk's case is framed the way it is:Daily medical monitoring? Yes.Treatment if doctors think it's needed? Yes.A direction to break his fast by force? Not yet.

As Sonam Wangchuk's hunger strike entered its 20th day, the Delhi High Court ordered daily medical monitoring but stopped short of authorising force-feeding, for now. Can he be forced to eat? What Supreme Court past judgments tell us. WION Decodes.

Sonam Wangchuk continues to dominate the headlines today (Jul 17) as his Anshan (fast unto death) enters day 20. As the climate activist's hunger strike crosses the critical 20-day mark, doctors are warning of imminent organ damage. The escalating crisis raises an uncomfortable, historical question: Can the government legally force-feed a protester? Ten years ago, the answer seemed simple. For nearly 16 years, Manipuri activist Irom Sharmila was repeatedly arrested and kept alive through a nasogastric tube inserted into her nose to break her protest against the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA). But on Thursday (July 16, 2026), the Delhi High Court ordered daily medical monitoring for Wangchuk while stopping short of ordering force-feeding. Today, India’s legal framework has fundamentally shifted. The Delhi High Court's order suggests it isn't that straightforward anymore. If a person's life is at risk, can the government legally force them to eat? The answer is more complicated than a simple yes or no. What does the law say? Let's Decode. Also read | 'We share the anguish...': Congress appeals to Sonam Wangchuk to end fast, even as Rahul Gandhi remains missing from Jantar Mantar Saving a life isn't the same as ending a protest Over the years, courts have steadily moved away from treating hunger strikes as something the state must immediately break. The focus today is different. Keep the person alive, yes. But don't crush the protest in the process. The petition before the Delhi High Court wasn't really about the demands Wangchuk is making. It was about what the government should do now that his health is worsening. The judges recorded the Centre's assurance that government doctors were already examining him every day. They directed that this should continue and that doctors should intervene medically whenever necessary. What was striking was what the order left unsaid. There was no instruction permitting force-feeding. Why? Supreme Court, Anshan and force feeding The Supreme Court has dealt with this before. A similar dilemma arose during Punjab farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal's indefinite fast in 2024. When Dallewal's indefinite fast had stretched beyond three weeks, prompting concerns about his health, a SC bench headed by Justice Surya Kant, reminded both the Punjab government and the Centre that protecting a person's life was their "bounden duty". It directed authorities to ensure Dallewal received immediate medical attention, while making it equally clear that he should not be compelled to abandon his fast unless doing so became absolutely necessary to save his life. The message was straightforward: The state cannot watch someone die. But neither can it casually override the decision of a competent adult who has chosen to protest by refusing food. Also read | 'Make Sonam Wangchuk Education Minister': Kejriwal warns BJP of '2014-like fate' Irom Sharmila's hunger strike and government force-feeding Mention hunger strikes in India, and one name inevitably comes up. Irom Sharmila. Her case unfolded under a very different law. Back then, attempting suicide was still an offence under Section 309 of the Indian Penal Code. Authorities repeatedly arrested Sharmila, admitted her to the hospital and kept her alive through force-feeding administered via a nasogastric tube. Notably, today's legal framework looks very different. What does Indian law say about hunger strike vs suicide attempt With the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita replacing the IPC, attempted suicide is no longer a criminal offence. Courts have also become far more protective of bodily autonomy and individual choice than they were two decades ago. However, that doesn't mean the state can simply walk away. It means its first instinct is expected to be medical care and dialogue, not coercion. 2011 Ramdev hunger strike: The "talk first" mandate That idea runs through one of the Supreme Court's better-known judgments on protests. In June 2011, Baba Ramdev observed a peaceful anti-corruption and anti-black money protest at New Delhi's Ramlila Maidan. He announced that he would remain on an indefinite fast. However, just one day into the hunger strike, a midnight police crackdown ended with him being evicted from the protest site. He eventually continued the hunger strike at his Patanjali Yogpeeth ashram in Haridwar, Uttarakhand. Taking suo motu cognisance of the midnight police crackdown, the Supreme Court, in its judgement, underscored that the Executive must not adopt a hostile stance against hunger strikers. It highlighted that the state must proactively reach out, engage, and peacefully persuade individuals to protect their lives rather than use immediate force. The judgment noted how the then-prime minister Manmohan Singh wrote to him, senior ministers met him, and discussions continued in an attempt to persuade him to call off the fast. The court saw those efforts as significant. Governments, it suggested, should engage with protesters instead of immediately treating a hunger strike as a law-and-order problem. Peaceful fasting, after all, has long occupied a special place in India's democratic tradition, shaped by Mahatma Gandhi's satyagraha. Notably, the Prime Minister Narendra Modi government is yet to engage with Sonam Wangchuk or the Cockroach Janata Party. So, can Wangchuk be forced to eat? If you're looking for a simple yes or no, the courts haven't given one. What they have done is draw a line. The government has a responsibility to prevent a death if a hunger strike reaches that point. But judges have become increasingly reluctant to endorse force-feeding simply because someone has chosen to protest through fasting. That explains why the Delhi High Court's order in Wangchuk's case is framed the way it is: Daily medical monitoring? Yes. Treatment if doctors think it's needed? Yes. A direction to break his fast by force? Not yet.

As Sonam Wangchuk's hunger strike entered its 20th day, the Delhi High Court ordered daily medical monitoring but stopped short of authorising force-feeding, for now. Can he be forced to eat? What Supreme Court past judgments tell us. WION Decodes.

Can the government force-feed Sonam Wangchuk like it did Irom Sharmila? Here's what the law says about hunger strikes | WION Decodes

Support for climate activist Sonam Wangchuk's indefinite hunger strike continued to gather momentum on Thursday (Jul 16), with leaders from across the Opposition visiting him at Delhi's Jantar Mantar even as doctors warned that his health had entered a critical stage after 19 days without food. Even as questions about Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition (LoP), Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's absence at Jantar Mantar grow, the INC extended its support to Wangchuk, while appealing to him to end the Anshan (fast unto death).Opposition parties have also extended their support, with former Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal, Samajwadi Party MP Dimple Yadav, Shiv Sena (UBT) leaders and farmer leader Rakesh Tikait among those who expressed solidarity with Wangchuk at the Cockroach Janata Party protest. The climate activist has been observing a hunger strike for 20 days (as of July 17) seeking the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over the alleged NEET-UG paper leak.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sonam-wangchuk-loses-over-9kg-on-day-19-of-hunger-strike-medical-team-issues-critical-update-1784182215506">Sonam Wangchuk loses over 9kg on day 19 of hunger strike</a><h2>Congress extends support, asks Wangchuk to end fast</h2>The Congress reiterated its demand for Pradhan's resignation while appealing to Wangchuk to call off his hunger strike because of his deteriorating health.Congress general secretary K C Venugopal said the party shared Wangchuk's concerns over what it described as the collapse of the examination system and assured him that the Opposition would continue pressing for accountability."We share the anguish and outrage that Shri Wangchuk ji feels, especially due to the lack of accountability within the Modi Govt, for the collapse of the examination system in particular," Venugopal said in a post on X.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Shri Sonam Wangchuk has now been on a hunger strike for 19 days, demanding the resignation of the Union Education Minister. The Indian National Congress has been making this very demand for over a month and a half. We share the anguish and outrage that Shri Wangchuk ji feels,…&mdash; K C Venugopal (@kcvenugopalmp) <a href="https://x.com/kcvenugopalmp/status/2077702421757997475?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 16, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

"In view of his health condition, we appeal to Shri Wangchuk to end his fast. His concerns are our concerns and that of other Opposition parties as well. Rest assured, we will continue to confront the Modi government and demand the Education Minister's resignation," he added.Congress leader Jairam Ramesh also said the party had been seeking Pradhan's resignation for nearly two months and noted that Rahul Gandhi would again raise the issue during his interaction with students in Dehradun on Friday as part of the Congress' "Chhatron Ki Goonj" campaign.<h2>Kejriwal pitches Wangchuk as Education Minister</h2>Addressing protesters at Jantar Mantar, Kejriwal on Thursday demanded Pradhan's resignation and suggested that Prime Minister Narendra Modi appoint Wangchuk as the next Union Education Minister."I suggest to the PM: remove Dharmendra Pradhan and make Sonam Wangchuk the Union Education Minister," Kejriwal said.He also urged the Centre to engage with the protesters, warning that ignoring the youth could have political consequences similar to those faced by the UPA government in 2014.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/every-life-is-precious-delhi-hc-delivers-big-order-on-sonam-wangchuk-tells-indian-govt-to-monitor-his-health-1784180637942">Delhi HC tells Centre to monitor Sonam Wangchuk's health</a><h2>Opposition leaders join protest</h2>Samajwadi Party MP Dimple Yadav urged the government to show "a little sensitivity" and open a dialogue with Wangchuk, saying compassion lies at the heart of Sanatan Dharma.Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray accused the BJP-led government of ignoring the concerns of students and demanded that Pradhan be held accountable for the alleged examination irregularities.Farmer leader Rakesh Tikait also visited the protest site to express support.<h2>Sonam Wangchuk Health concerns deepen</h2>Doctors attending to Wangchuk have said he has lost more than nine kilograms since beginning the fast and warned that the prolonged hunger strike could soon begin affecting his organs.Despite repeated appeals from political leaders and supporters, Wangchuk has refused to end the protest, saying doing so without any response from the government would send the wrong message.Meanwhile, the Delhi High Court directed authorities to monitor his health daily and ensure immediate medical intervention whenever necessary, observing that "the life of every citizen is precious."The protest, led by Wangchuk and students' organisations including the Krantikari Yuva Sangathan (KYS), All India Students' Association (AISA) and Students' Federation of India (SFI), has also called for a march to Parliament on July 20, the opening day of the Monsoon Session. &nbsp;

As Sonam Wangchuk's indefinite hunger strike entered its 20th day, Congress backed his demand for accountability over the NEET-UG paper leak and appealed to him to end his fast, even as questions grew over Rahul Gandhi's absence from the protest.

Support for climate activist Sonam Wangchuk's indefinite hunger strike continued to gather momentum on Thursday (Jul 16), with leaders from across the Opposition visiting him at Delhi's Jantar Mantar even as doctors warned that his health had entered a critical stage after 19 days without food. Even as questions about Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition (LoP), Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's absence at Jantar Mantar grow, the INC extended its support to Wangchuk, while appealing to him to end the Anshan (fast unto death). Opposition parties have also extended their support, with former Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal, Samajwadi Party MP Dimple Yadav, Shiv Sena (UBT) leaders and farmer leader Rakesh Tikait among those who expressed solidarity with Wangchuk at the Cockroach Janata Party protest. The climate activist has been observing a hunger strike for 20 days (as of July 17) seeking the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over the alleged NEET-UG paper leak. Also read | Sonam Wangchuk loses over 9kg on day 19 of hunger strike Congress extends support, asks Wangchuk to end fast The Congress reiterated its demand for Pradhan's resignation while appealing to Wangchuk to call off his hunger strike because of his deteriorating health. Congress general secretary K C Venugopal said the party shared Wangchuk's concerns over what it described as the collapse of the examination system and assured him that the Opposition would continue pressing for accountability. "We share the anguish and outrage that Shri Wangchuk ji feels, especially due to the lack of accountability within the Modi Govt, for the collapse of the examination system in particular," Venugopal said in a post on X.

As Sonam Wangchuk's indefinite hunger strike entered its 20th day, Congress backed his demand for accountability over the NEET-UG paper leak and appealed to him to end his fast, even as questions grew over Rahul Gandhi's absence from the protest.

'We share the anguish...': Congress appeals to Sonam Wangchuk to end fast, even as Rahul Gandhi remains missing from Jantar Mantar

Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk is still on hunger strike, and a petition in the Delhi High Court is now asking for him to be force-fed. His lawyer warned he could die within two days without intervention. Since June 28, his weight has dropped and his BP is down. He’s demanding Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan resign over NEET exam irregularities. The court has asked the Centre to respond to the hospitalisation plea. Now it’s a fight about life, conscience, and whether someone will finally listen before it’s too late.


Sonam Wangchuk refuses to break hunger strike, asks people to join march to parliament

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