Hunger strike enters day 16: Calls for end to hunger strike grow as Sonam Wangchuk's health deteriorates
PTC News Desk: Calls for climate activist Sonam Wangchuk to end hunder strike grew stronger on Tuesday as Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) founder Abhijeet Dipke expressed concern over his health. Taking to X, Dipke said Wangchuk has started to lose muscle mass and is in immense pain.
While expressing concern over Wangchuk's deteriorating health, the CJP founder said that he has lost 8.5 kg weight and blood pressure is at 109/70.
“He has started losing muscle mass and is in immense pain. Like everyone else, I begged him to end his fast. He calmly replied, “Don’t ask me to end my fast. Ask the government why they won’t even have a dialogue.”
Day 17 of Sonam Sir’s Hunger-Strike.
He has started losing muscle mass and is in immense pain. Like everyone else, I begged him to end his fast.
He calmly replied, “Don’t ask me to end my fast. Ask the govt why they won’t even have a dialogue.” pic.twitter.com/xPKFqJz4vL — Abhijeet Dipke (@abhijeet_dipke) July 14, 2026
Tuesday, July 14 marks the 17th day of Wangchuk’s hunger strike and 25th day of CJP protest against education minister Dharmendra Pradhan.
Abhijit Dipke also further requested the government to not make it a battle of egos where human lives are at stake as the agitation is being held only to seek accountability.
“I request the Govt not to turn this into a battle of egos as human lives are at stake here. Acknowledging a mistake is not a sign of weakness. It is a sign of maturity, accountability, and the willingness to correct course.”
Political leaders extend support
Sonam Wangchuk and CJP has received support cutting across party lines with TMC leader Mahua Moitra also appealing the climate activist to end hunger strike and continue the protest.
“Sonam Sir, your fast has united this country’s youth in their war for justice. Your goal is reached. Govt doesn’t care about your life or that of crores of youth. But your life matters to us. Pls call off fast & continue the fight.”
Sonam Sir @Wangchuk66 your fast has united this country’s youth in their war for justice. Your goal is reached. Govt doesn’t care about your life or that of crores of youth. But your life matters to us. Pls call off fast & continue the fight. — Mahua Moitra (@MahuaMoitra) July 14, 2026
"An AAP delegation led by former Delhi chief minister Atishi also visited the protest site on Monday and expressed solidarity with the agitation.
CPI(M) MP Amra Ram, along with senior CPI(M) leaders from Andhra Pradesh and Rajasthan, also visited the protest site and backed the demands. The visiting leaders also extended support to the proposed peaceful march from Jantar Mantar to Parliament on July 20.
- With inputs from agencies
