Indian activist Sonam Wangchuk has entered the 20th day of an indefinite hunger strike at Jantar Mantar in Delhi [1], [3].
The protest highlights growing public frustration over the integrity of India's national examination systems. A suspected leak of the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) paper has sparked widespread demands for accountability and systemic education reforms.
Wangchuk, 59 [1], is demanding the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. The activist has used his fast to draw attention to the alleged leak and to press the government for broader changes to how education is managed in the country [2], [5].
Physical tolls from the fast are becoming evident. Wangchuk has lost 9.5 kg after 20 days of striking [4]. Despite the health risks, he has expressed a determination to continue. "I will stay alive by any means," Wangchuk said [0].
In a separate statement regarding the duration of the strike, Wangchuk said, "I haven't eaten for nearly three weeks" [1].
The protest is intended to build momentum for a larger demonstration. Wangchuk is urging supporters to join a mass turnout for the Cockroach Janata Party’s march to Parliament, which is scheduled for July 20 [2], [3].
"We urge supporters to ensure the success of the Cockroach Janata Party's march to Parliament on Monday," Wangchuk said [2].
The activist's fast began in mid-June and is slated to continue until at least the date of the planned march [1], [3].
“"I will stay alive by any means"”
The hunger strike by a high-profile figure like Sonam Wangchuk signals a deepening crisis of trust in India's competitive examination process. By linking the demand for a minister's resignation to a planned mass march, the movement seeks to transform a specific grievance about paper leaks into a broader political mandate for education reform.
