New Delhi, July 15: The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), led by Dipke, has announced a nationwide one-day mass hunger strike on July 16 in solidarity with activist and education reform campaigner Sonam Wangchuk, whose health has reportedly deteriorated after remaining on an indefinite fast for more than two weeks. The call for public participation comes amid growing concern from doctors, civil society groups, and political leaders over Wangchuk’s physical condition. (timesofindia.indiatimes.com)
According to CJP leaders, the mass hunger strike is intended to demonstrate public support for Wangchuk while amplifying demands for reforms in India’s examination system. Organizers have appealed to students, teachers, parents, professionals, and citizens across the country to participate peacefully in the symbolic fast. The primary gathering is expected to take place at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar, where Wangchuk has been leading the protest since late June.
The campaign focuses on concerns surrounding alleged paper leaks, transparency in competitive examinations, and greater accountability in the education sector. Protesters argue that repeated examination irregularities have affected the future of millions of students and are urging authorities to implement stronger safeguards to restore public confidence in recruitment and entrance examinations. The movement has attracted support from education experts, student organizations, and activists from various parts of the country. (m.economictimes.com)
Medical concerns surrounding Wangchuk have continued to intensify. Individuals associated with the protest say the activist has experienced significant weight loss, muscle deterioration, and increasing physical weakness during the prolonged fast. Doctors monitoring his condition have advised him to discontinue the hunger strike, warning that continued fasting could pose serious health risks. Despite these concerns, Wangchuk has maintained that the movement is aimed at securing meaningful reforms rather than political gains. (timesofindia.indiatimes.com)
Support for Wangchuk has expanded beyond activist circles. Several political leaders, including Aam Aadmi Party national convenor Arvind Kejriwal, have expressed solidarity with the protest. Kejriwal has announced that he will visit Wangchuk at Jantar Mantar on July 16 and has urged him to end his indefinite fast while continuing the movement through other democratic means. He described Wangchuk as a valuable voice for education reforms and appealed for his health to be protected. (newindianexpress.com)
The protest has also received backing from members of civil society, academics, environmentalists, and public figures, many of whom have signed appeals requesting Wangchuk to prioritize his health. At the same time, they have urged the government to engage in constructive dialogue with the protesters and address concerns related to examination reforms.
Meanwhile, a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) has reportedly been filed seeking urgent medical attention for Wangchuk while respecting his constitutional right to peaceful protest. The petition urges authorities to ensure his safety as his health continues to decline. (deccanchronicle.com)
CJP leaders have stated that the nationwide hunger strike will remain peaceful and democratic. Participants have been encouraged to observe the fast in their respective cities, educational institutions, and community spaces while voicing support for transparent examinations and stronger safeguards against paper leaks. Organizers hope the coordinated action will bring greater national attention to the movement and encourage policymakers to initiate meaningful discussions on long-term reforms in India’s education system. As the protest enters another critical phase, all eyes remain on developments at Jantar Mantar and the government’s response to the growing public campaign.
