Sonam Wangchuk hunger strike entered a critical phase on Saturday after the education reform activist was shifted to Delhi’s Safdarjung Hospital. His health reportedly worsened after 21 days of fasting, prompting authorities to intervene following medical advice and directions from the Delhi High Court.
The development has intensified the debate over education reforms, students’ concerns about examination integrity, and the government’s handling of peaceful protests.
Who is Sonam Wangchuk?
Sonam Wangchuk is an engineer, innovator, education reformer, and climate activist from Ladakh. He gained national recognition for promoting experiential learning and sustainable development in remote Himalayan regions.
His work inspired the character played by Aamir Khan in the Bollywood film 3 Idiots, although the movie is not a direct biography of Wangchuk.
Over the years, he has become one of India’s most recognised voices on education and environmental issues.
Why Did Sonam Wangchuk Begin His Hunger Strike?
The Sonam Wangchuk hunger strike began on June 28 in support of a student-led movement demanding accountability over alleged examination paper leaks and broader reforms in India’s examination system.
The protesters have also demanded the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, arguing that repeated examination controversies have affected millions of students and damaged trust in competitive exams.
Supporters say the protest is aimed at restoring fairness, transparency, and accountability in India’s education system.
Why Was He Hospitalised?
After fasting for 21 days, Wangchuk’s health reportedly deteriorated.
Doctors warned of weakness and dehydration caused by prolonged fasting. Acting on medical advice and after directions from the Delhi High Court to closely monitor his condition, Delhi Police shifted him to Safdarjung Hospital early on Saturday. Authorities said the move was necessary to protect his life.
Hospital officials later stated that he is stable but remains weak and requires continuous medical monitoring.
Controversy Over the Police Action
The hospitalisation has sparked political and public controversy.
Police said they acted only after medical experts advised immediate treatment and in line with the High Court’s directions.
However, Wangchuk’s supporters alleged that he was removed against his wishes. Protest organisers criticised the manner in which the operation was carried out, while opposition leaders accused the government of suppressing peaceful dissent.
What Happened at Jantar Mantar?
Following Wangchuk’s removal, police asked protesters to vacate the demonstration site at Jantar Mantar.
The protest, however, has not ended. Other activists have continued the agitation, with some announcing that they will carry forward the indefinite hunger strike until their demands are addressed. Protest organisers have also planned further demonstrations in the coming days.
Why This Protest Matters
The protest has become larger than one individual’s fast.
It reflects growing concerns among students and parents over repeated examination controversies, paper leak allegations, and demands for greater transparency in recruitment and entrance examinations.
Supporters believe reforms are essential to restore public confidence in India’s education system, while the government maintains that legal and administrative measures are being taken to improve examination security.
Latest Update
As of Saturday, Sonam Wangchuk remains under medical supervision at Safdarjung Hospital.
Doctors say his condition is stable but requires continuous monitoring due to the physical impact of prolonged fasting. Meanwhile, the protest movement continues, and political reactions are expected to intensify as Parliament’s monsoon session approaches.
Also Read: Sonam Wangchuk Hunger Strike Day 19
