Climate activist and education reformer Sonam Wangchuk entered the 17th day of his hunger strike at Delhi's Jantar Mantar on Tuesday.
The protest highlights growing public anger over the integrity of national examinations and the perceived lack of government accountability regarding academic transparency.
Wangchuk is protesting an alleged leak of the NEET 2026 papers. He is demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and urging the central government to enter into a dialogue with stakeholders.
Medical reports indicate Wangchuk's health is deteriorating. He has lost 8.5 kg [1] during the fast, with other reports noting the loss as more than eight kg [2]. Doctors have warned that he is losing muscle mass as the strike continues.
Despite the health risks, Wangchuk has refused to stop. "Don't ask me to end my fast. Ask the govt why they won't even have a dialogue," Wangchuk said.
Support for the activist has grown as the strike progressed. Opposition leaders and public figures, including actor Omi Vaidya and representatives from the CPI(M), have visited Jantar Mantar to show solidarity. These visitors are pressing the government to address the grievances of students, and educators, to avoid further health complications for the activist.
The gathering at the protest site has placed the government under increased scrutiny as public figures urge the administration to end the stalemate through direct communication.
“"Don't ask me to end my fast. Ask the govt why they won't even have a dialogue."”
The escalation of Wangchuk's hunger strike transforms a specific grievance regarding the NEET 2026 exams into a broader symbol of institutional distrust. By involving high-profile activists and opposition parties, the movement is shifting from a student-led complaint to a political challenge against the Union Education Ministry, increasing the pressure on the government to provide a transparent resolution to avoid a public health crisis.
