Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk began an indefinite hunger strike on June 28, 2026 [1], at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi.
The protest highlights growing public frustration over academic integrity and government transparency. By joining the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP), Wangchuk is linking environmental and regional concerns with national demands for educational accountability.
Wangchuk is demanding accountability for an alleged paper leak in the NEET-UG examinations [2]. He said his goal is to press for a resolution to these exam issues as well as other election-related matters [1]. Despite the tension surrounding the demonstrations, Wangchuk emphasized a commitment to non-violence.
"Peace and only peace is my way," Wangchuk said [3].
He further urged the government to act peacefully while addressing the leak, stating, "We are demanding accountability for the NEET-UG paper leak and urge the government to act peacefully" [2].
The protest gained momentum as various groups, including Khap leaders, joined the CJP demonstration [4]. However, the situation grew more tense as the fast continued. By June 30, 2026, the CJP protest had reached its 11th day [5].
Abhijeet Dipke, the founder of the CJP, said police were blocking entry to the site and that Wangchuk's health was deteriorating due to the fast [5]. Dipke placed the responsibility for the activist's well-being on the government.
"If anything happens to Sonam, Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan will be directly responsible," Dipke said [6].
“"Peace and only peace is my way."”
The alignment of a high-profile climate activist like Sonam Wangchuk with the Cockroach Janata Party suggests a broadening coalition of dissent in India. By centering the protest on the NEET-UG paper leak, the movement connects systemic corruption in the education sector with broader calls for government accountability, potentially amplifying the political pressure on the Ministry of Education.
