CJP protest day 21: Wangchuk says hunger has 'stabilised', warns against any attempt to remove him
Activist Sonam Wangchuk has entered the 13th day of an indefinite hunger strike in support of the Cockroach Janta Party's protest against examination irregularities. He has warned authorities against forcibly removing him from the protest site at Jantar Mantar.
Why it matters
The protest highlights growing public dissatisfaction with government handling of educational examinations and regional issues in Ladakh.
Educator and climate activist Sonam Wangchuk on Friday (July 9, 2026) said his hunger had “stabilised” as he entered the 13th day of his indefinite fast and asserted that his constitutional right should not be violated by attempting to remove him from the protest site.
He has been fasting in support of the Cockroach Janta Party’s (CJP) agitation at Jantar Mantar, demanding Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan’s resignation and government accountability over alleged examination irregularities, which entered its 21st day.
“Today is the 13th day (of the fast). I am feeling okay. My hunger has stabilised. The initial days are difficult as the body adjusts to fasting. There is some tiredness, but otherwise I am fine,” Mr. Wangchuk told reporters.
He said he has lost muscle along with fat during the prolonged fast but continues to feel energetic.
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