New Delhi, July 2026 — The Delhi High Court has stepped in to protect the life of environmentalist and activist Sonam Wangchuk, who is on an indefinite hunger strike at Jantar Mantar.
Wangchuk has refused food for 19 days, sparking urgent calls for government intervention as his health reaches a critical breaking point.
A New Fight: From Climate to Classroom
While Wangchuk’s previous high-profile fasts focused on protecting the fragile ecology of Ladakh, this protest takes aim at a national crisis: corruption in India’s education system.
Supported by the newly formed “Cockroach Janta Party” led by Abhijit Dipke, Wangchuk’s strike is a direct response to the recent wave of paper leaks and structural failures in national competitive exams like NEET. The protesters argue these recurring leaks have shattered public trust and compromised the future of millions of students.
The Demands at the Center
The core objective of the strike is to force systemic accountability. The protest group’s demands include:
- A transparent, overhaul of the public examination system.
- Fixed accountability for authorities responsible for security lapses.
- The immediate resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.
Wangchuk maintains he will not end his fast until the government takes real responsibility for the systemic failures.
A Critical Medical Crisis
The matter reached the Delhi High Court through a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) highlighting Wangchuk’s rapid physical deterioration. Medical reports reveal he has lost approximately 9 kilograms, causing muscle wasting, severe dehydration, and electrolyte imbalances.
Doctors warn that prolonged starvation puts him at immediate risk of irreversible liver and kidney damage, followed by total organ failure. While the petitioner urged the court to authorize force-feeding via government hospitalization, the bench sought a more measured approach.
The High Court’s Balanced Directive
Refusing to order coercive force-feeding, the Delhi High Court delivered a balanced ruling that protects both democratic rights and human life. The court directed the Central and Delhi governments to ensure a dedicated team of government doctors monitors Wangchuk’s vitals daily.
Relying on government medical personnel ensures an indisputable, neutral record of his health. The court emphasized that while peaceful protest is a constitutional right, the state has an absolute duty under Article 21 to safeguard the life of its citizens.
Bottom Line
Sonam Wangchuk’s 19-day fast has forced a confrontation between public protest and state responsibility. By mandating strict government medical oversight, the High Court has drawn a line: the protest may continue, but the state cannot stand by and watch an activist die.
