Climate Protest – Sonam Wangchuk’s Hunger Strike Reaches 18th Day as Support Grows in Delhi
Climate Protest –Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk’s indefinite hunger strike entered its 18th day on Wednesday, with a large gathering of supporters assembling at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi. Nearly 1,000 people participated in the ongoing demonstration as preparations intensified for the proposed “Sansad Chalo” march toward Parliament. The protest has steadily gained public attention, drawing citizens from different backgrounds who have joined the campaign in support of Wangchuk’s demands.
Protest Site Becomes a Temporary Community Hub
Jantar Mantar, the capital’s designated venue for public demonstrations, transformed into a temporary camp as participants prepared for an extended stay. Students, professionals, senior citizens, social workers and activists were seen occupying the area with essential supplies, including bedding, luggage and mosquito nets. Volunteers managed drinking water distribution, while electric fans helped provide some relief from the humid weather. Posters carrying messages on environmental concerns and democratic participation were displayed throughout the venue, reflecting the purpose of the ongoing protest.
Public Discussions and Volunteer Support Continue
Alongside the demonstration, several awareness activities were organised for participants. At a discussion space known as Kranti Corner, Delhi University professor Abha Dev Habib addressed attendees on issues related to the National Education Policy and its impact on girls’ education. The protest site also included tea stalls, a community library and a basic medical assistance centre where volunteers distributed oral rehydration salts, throat lozenges and other essential healthcare items to those taking part in the protest.
Wangchuk Appeals for Patience and Calm
Addressing supporters gathered at the venue, Sonam Wangchuk urged them not to insist that he end his fast. Reassuring those concerned about his health, he stated that the encouragement and affection shown by supporters had helped him remain strong throughout the protest. Three members of the Campaign for Justice and Peace (CJP)—Neha, Maneesh and Ameen—have continued their own hunger strike alongside Wangchuk for the same duration in a show of solidarity.
Political Leaders Extend Support
Support for the protest has continued to expand across political circles. After former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal expressed his backing, Congress Member of Parliament Shashi Tharoor called on the Central Government to begin discussions with Wangchuk. While recognising that the protest had successfully drawn national attention to the issues being raised, Tharoor also appealed to the activist to conclude his fast, stating that the country would continue to benefit from his leadership and public engagement.
Public Figures and Citizens Join Demonstration
The protest witnessed visits from several well-known personalities on Wednesday. Stand-up comedian Kunal Kamra joined the gathering along with Campaign for Justice and Peace founder Abhijeet Dipke. Earlier in the day, Nagina Member of Parliament Chandra Shekhar Azad also visited the protest venue to express support.
Among the participants was 69-year-old Vijaya Rani, who travelled from Uttar Pradesh with her son to attend the demonstration. She said she wanted to observe how young people were participating in democratic movements and continuing their peaceful protest despite challenging weather conditions.
Delhi High Court Seeks Government Response
The legal developments surrounding the protest also progressed on Wednesday. Taking note of the urgency of the matter, the Delhi High Court sought responses from both the Central Government and the Delhi Government on a petition requesting directions to safeguard Sonam Wangchuk’s wellbeing during his indefinite hunger strike. The court asked the authorities to submit their replies by July 16. Wangchuk has been staging the fast at Jantar Mantar while demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.