Activist and engineer Sonam Wangchuk has entered the 20th day of a hunger strike in New Delhi as doctors warn of possible organ failure [2].
The strike highlights growing tensions over education policies and student grievances, specifically regarding NEET-UG results and the demands of the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) [1].
Medical reports indicate a significant decline in Wangchuk's health. His current weight is 56.55 kg [1], reflecting a loss of 350 grams in the last 24 hours [1]. Earlier reports from day 19 indicated a total weight loss of nine kg [6].
Physicians said there is "possible organ involvement" [2]. Despite these warnings, Wangchuk has reportedly refused medication and IV fluids while under medical supervision [3].
Vital signs recorded during the strike include a blood pressure of 108/68 mmHg, blood sugar at 80 mg/dL, and a pulse rate of 72 beats per minute [1].
Wangchuk began his protest at Jantar Mantar [1]. While some reports place him at the protest site on day 20 [1], other accounts state he was taken to Safdarjung Hospital as his condition deteriorated [3].
Regarding his resolve, Wangchuk said, "Will stay alive till July 20" [2].
The protest has drawn nationwide attention to the CJP's platform, which focuses on systemic changes to how student results are handled, and broader academic policies [1].
“Possible organ involvement.”
The deteriorating health of a high-profile figure like Wangchuk elevates a localized student protest into a national humanitarian concern. By linking his physical survival to a specific date, Wangchuk is creating a time-sensitive ultimatum for policymakers to address the NEET-UG and CJP grievances before a medical crisis forces an end to the strike.
