The indefinite hunger strike by Ramshiromani Mishra, father of Rewa woman Kalpana Mishra who died along with her newborn at Gandhi Memorial Hospital, entered its fifth day on Sunday. The family continues to demand an FIR against those they hold responsible and a fair investigation into the circumstances surrounding the deaths.

Mishra is sitting on a protest at Sirmour Chauraha in Rewa. Supporters of the family have appealed to people across the district to reach the protest site and extend support to the campaign seeking justice for Kalpana and her child.

The case has already led to departmental action against four healthcare workers, the removal of the hospital superintendent and multiple inquiries. However, the family says these measures are insufficient and is insisting on criminal proceedings.

Father refuses to end hunger strike

Ramshiromani Mishra has maintained that suspension alone cannot provide justice to his daughter and newborn grandson. His primary demand is that an FIR be registered against those found responsible, followed by an impartial investigation and legal action.

The continuing protest has also attracted support from political and social organisations.

Deputy Chief Minister and Health Minister Rajendra Shukla has previously met the family and assured them that the matter would be investigated and action taken if wrongdoing is established.

Despite that assurance and the administrative measures already taken, Kalpana’s father has continued his hunger strike.

Four healthcare workers suspended

Following the deaths, authorities took preliminary disciplinary action against two nursing officers and two doctorsassociated with the case.

The suspended doctors include Dr Sonal Agrawal, who was on duty in the obstetrics and gynaecology department, and Dr Nidhi Pandey from anaesthesia. The two nursing officers were also suspended following the initial allegations and inquiry.

The state government has said further action will depend on the findings of the investigation. (Web India News)

Importantly, the suspensions are administrative action and do not by themselves establish criminal liability.

Hospital superintendent removed

Another significant development was the removal of Dr Rahul Mishra from the post of superintendent of Sanjay Gandhi Memorial Hospital.

The action followed controversy over a video of his interaction with Kalpana’s family after her death. The government subsequently transferred the hospital’s superintendence to Dr Priyank Sharma. 

Dr Rahul Mishra had denied allegations of medical negligence and maintained that Kalpana had been treated according to medical protocols. The circumstances surrounding her death remain subject to investigation. 

Inquiry examining treatment and circumstances

The government has constituted an inquiry into the deaths to determine what happened from Kalpana’s admission through her treatment and delivery.

A five-member committee was earlier constituted to examine the circumstances surrounding the death. Separately, the Rewa administration has ordered a magisterial inquiry, with the Sirmour SDM assigned to examine the case and submit findings. 

The investigation is expected to examine whether prescribed medical protocols were followed and whether any lapse contributed to the deaths.

The family also sought post-mortem examinations. The available reports indicate that the exact cause of death has not yet been conclusively established.

Video intensified public anger

The controversy escalated after a video surfaced showing Kalpana in distress shortly before her death, pleading with her family and expressing fear about continuing treatment.

The footage triggered widespread concern and protests, with the family alleging serious lapses in treatment. Hospital authorities, however, have maintained that the allegations must be examined through the inquiry process. 

The video has become an important part of the public debate, but it does not by itself establish the medical cause of death or criminal responsibility.

FIR demand remains central to protest

With the hunger strike entering its fifth day, the family’s demand has shifted the focus from departmental action to criminal accountability.

The government has already taken several administrative measures, including suspensions, a change in hospital leadership and inquiries. The next major development will depend on the findings of those investigations.

Until those findings are available, allegations of negligence should remain attributed to the family and protesters rather than presented as an established fact. The family, meanwhile, has appealed for greater public participation at the Sirmour Chauraha protest as it continues its demand for an FIR and legal action.

Ranchi: The ongoing student protest over alleged irregularities in recruitment examinations in Jharkhand has entered a new phase, with the agitating students expressing their willingness to hold talks with the state government. However, they have placed two key conditions before agreeing to formal discussions. The protesters have demanded that the meeting be held directly with Chief Minister Hemant Soren and that at least two media representatives remain present throughout the interaction to ensure complete transparency.

The agitation, which has continued for nearly two weeks, is centred around alleged irregularities in the Jharkhand Public Service Commission (JPSC) recruitment process and other competitive examinations. Hundreds of students have been staging a sit-in at Jaipal Singh Munda Stadium in Ranchi, demanding an independent investigation into the recruitment controversy and action against those responsible.

Student leader Ravindra Paswan said government officials approached the protesters with a proposal for dialogue. According to him, the administration has sought the names of student representatives so that a meeting can be scheduled. Once the list is finalised, the government is expected to communicate the date and venue for the talks.

Despite agreeing in principle to negotiations, the students have accused the government of attempting to weaken the movement by inviting only a limited delegation. Protest leaders argued that restricting the meeting to a small group of representatives could dilute the concerns of the larger student community and therefore insisted that the entire process remain open and transparent.

The protest at Jaipal Singh Munda Stadium entered its 13th day, with several students continuing an indefinite hunger strike. Among them, student leader Devendra Nath Mahato and five others remain on fast, demanding a fair investigation into the alleged examination irregularities. The protesters have reiterated their demand that the matter be investigated by agencies such as the CBI and the Enforcement Directorate (ED).

Meanwhile, the investigation into the recruitment examination case has continued to gather pace. The Criminal Investigation Department (CID) arrested five more accused late on Wednesday, taking the total number of arrests in the case to 19. Officials are continuing their probe into the alleged paper leak and examination-related irregularities.

Health concerns have also emerged during the ongoing agitation. Devendra Nath Mahato's condition reportedly deteriorated after several days of fasting, with doctors observing a drop in his blood pressure and blood sugar levels. Medical personnel attending the protest administered intravenous fluids after monitoring his condition.

On Wednesday, Mahato also interacted with social activist Sonam Wangchuk through a video call. During the conversation, Wangchuk appealed to the fasting students to take care of their health while continuing their democratic protest. Following the appeal, Mahato agreed to drink water but maintained that his indefinite hunger strike would continue until the students' demands were addressed.

The controversy began after the Jharkhand Public Service Commission declared the results of the 14th Combined Civil Services Preliminary Examination on July 2. A total of 2,204 candidates qualified for the Main Examination, which was scheduled to be conducted between July 18 and July 20.

Soon after the results were announced, several candidates alleged irregularities in the selection process. Among the issues raised were the non-publication of the official cut-off marks and the circulation of a purported OMR sheet on social media. The viral document allegedly showed that a candidate who had attempted only a limited number of questions had still qualified for the Main Examination.

Questions were also raised over the absence of signatures from authorised commission officials on the published result documents. As the controversy intensified and demands for greater transparency grew, the JPSC eventually cancelled the scheduled Main Examination.

In response to the escalating protests, Chief Minister Hemant Soren has already constituted a four-member ministerial committee to engage with the agitating students. The panel includes Higher Education Minister Sudivya Kumar Sonu, Rural Development Minister Deepika Pandey Singh, Welfare Minister Chamara Linda, and Industries Minister Sanjay Prasad Yadav.

The Chief Minister also held a meeting with the ministers to discuss the situation and explore possible solutions before extending an invitation for dialogue to the student representatives. Although initial discussions did not result in a breakthrough, both sides now appear willing to continue efforts toward a negotiated resolution.

With the protest gathering wider public attention and the investigation continuing, the coming days are expected to be crucial as the government and student representatives prepare for direct talks.

Social activist and environmentalist Sonam Wangchuk was shifted from Safdarjung Hospital in New Delhi to Medanta Hospital in Gurugram on Tuesday evening following directions from the Delhi High Court. Wangchuk, who has been on an indefinite hunger strike for several weeks, was admitted directly to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), where a team of specialist doctors has begun his treatment under continuous medical supervision.

The transfer took place under tight security after the High Court permitted Wangchuk to receive treatment at the hospital of his choice. An ambulance carrying him reached Medanta at around 7:28 pm, following his discharge from Safdarjung Hospital earlier in the evening.

High Court Upholds Right to Choose Hospital

The Delhi High Court passed the order after hearing a petition filed by Wangchuk's wife, Geetanjali Angmo, who sought permission for his transfer to Medanta, citing the need for advanced medical care.

The court observed that every citizen has the constitutional right to receive treatment at a hospital of their choice, referring to the protections guaranteed under Articles 19 and 21 of the Constitution. It directed Safdarjung Hospital to complete all necessary formalities and facilitate Wangchuk's immediate transfer.

The court also instructed Medanta Hospital to constitute a team of specialist doctors to monitor his condition round the clock and ensure treatment in accordance with established medical protocols.

Health Under Close Monitoring

According to hospital officials, Wangchuk was formally discharged from Safdarjung Hospital at around 6:40 pm. His complete medical records, investigation reports, and treatment history were handed over to the Medanta medical team to ensure continuity of care.

Doctors stated that although his vital signs were stable at the time of discharge, he continues to suffer from pancytopenia, a condition involving a significant reduction in blood cell counts. Medical examinations also indicated that his potassium levels were slightly below normal, requiring close monitoring and appropriate treatment.

Upon arrival at Medanta, Wangchuk was admitted to ICU-8 on the hospital's second floor. His treatment is being supervised by Dr. Sushila Kataria, Chairperson of Internal Medicine, along with a multidisciplinary team of specialists.

Hunger Strike Continues

According to available information, Sonam Wangchuk has been on an indefinite hunger strike since 28 June, raising concerns related to alleged examination irregularities and broader issues in the education system.

His prolonged fast led to a gradual deterioration in his health, prompting his admission to Safdarjung Hospital before his family approached the High Court for permission to shift him to a private medical facility.

Medical experts continue to closely assess his condition while deciding further treatment based on his response to ongoing care.

Security Tightened Around Hospital

Following Wangchuk's arrival, Gurugram Police strengthened security arrangements around Medanta Hospital.

Additional police personnel have been deployed inside and outside the hospital premises, while access to sensitive areas is being closely monitored to prevent any untoward incidents. Officials said security measures have been enhanced considering the public attention surrounding Wangchuk's health and ongoing movement.

National Attention on Wangchuk's Health

Sonam Wangchuk has been widely recognised for his work in environmental conservation, education reform, and issues concerning Ladakh. His campaigns have attracted nationwide attention over the years.

His ongoing hunger strike has once again placed him at the centre of public debate, with political leaders, civil society groups, and supporters closely monitoring his health and treatment.

The Delhi High Court's intervention has ensured that he receives treatment at his preferred medical facility, while doctors continue to monitor his condition in the ICU.

The Delhi High Court is scheduled to hear a petition filed by Dr. Gitanjali Angmo, wife of environmental activist Sonam Wangchuk, at 2:30 pm on Sunday. The plea seeks permission to shift Wangchuk from Delhi's Safdarjung Hospital to a private medical facility, claiming that he is being kept in the government hospital against his wishes despite repeated requests from his family.

The hearing comes as Wangchuk continues his indefinite hunger strike, which began on 28 June, demanding accountability over the alleged NEET paper leak and seeking the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.

Wife Alleges Forced Hospitalisation

In her petition before the High Court, Dr. Angmo has alleged that Wangchuk is effectively under detention in the hospital under the pretext of medical treatment. She stated that the family has lost confidence in the medical care being provided at Safdarjung Hospital and wants him shifted to a private hospital of their choice.

According to the plea, despite repeated representations, hospital authorities have neither discharged the activist nor permitted his transfer. The petition argues that Wangchuk's continued stay at the government hospital is against his wishes and raises concerns about his personal liberty and medical autonomy.

Safdarjung Hospital Says Condition Stable

Responding to the controversy, Safdarjung Hospital issued a medical bulletin on Sunday morning stating that Wangchuk is receiving appropriate treatment under the supervision of a multidisciplinary team.

According to the hospital, his vital signs remain stable, although certain blood parameters continue to show mild abnormalities due to the prolonged fast. Doctors said the activist requires continuous medical monitoring because extended fasting can place severe physiological stress on the body.

The hospital also noted that Wangchuk has refused intravenous fluids, oral rehydration solution (ORS), and medication, making close medical supervision essential.

Wangchuk Calls Parliament March 'India's Second Freedom Movement'

Amid the legal proceedings, Wangchuk released a handwritten message through his wife on social media platform X, urging supporters to make the planned Parliament march on 20 July a success.

Describing the campaign as "India's second freedom movement," Wangchuk appealed to citizens to unite against what he called injustice, fear, paper leaks and the alleged misuse of power. The note was reportedly written from Safdarjung Hospital, where he referred to his stay as an "illegal detention."

The activist's appeal has intensified political attention around the protest, with supporters preparing to participate in the march during the opening of Parliament's Monsoon Session.

Hunger Strike Continues Amid Growing Attention

Sonam Wangchuk has been on an indefinite fast for over three weeks, maintaining that his protest is aimed at ensuring greater accountability in public institutions and highlighting concerns over examination irregularities.

His deteriorating health, coupled with the legal battle over his treatment and continued hospitalisation, has drawn widespread attention from civil society groups and political observers. The outcome of Sunday's High Court hearing is expected to determine whether Wangchuk can be shifted to a private medical facility while continuing his protest.

Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk was shifted to Delhi's Safdarjung Hospital on Saturday after completing 20 days of an indefinite hunger strike, following growing concerns over his deteriorating health and directions from the Delhi High Court.

Police escorted Wangchuk from the protest site at Jantar Mantar for medical treatment after doctors warned that his condition had worsened due to prolonged fasting.

Hospital Shift Follows High Court Directions

The move came two days after the Delhi High Court directed authorities to conduct daily medical examinations of Wangchuk, observing that "the life of any citizen is precious."

The court instructed officials to ensure regular health monitoring and provide necessary medical intervention if his condition continued to decline.

According to Delhi Police, the decision to hospitalise Wangchuk was taken based on expert medical advice and in compliance with the High Court's order.

Police Clear Protest Site

Following Wangchuk's transfer to the hospital, police began clearing protesters gathered at Jantar Mantar.

A brief commotion broke out as some demonstrators attempted to obstruct the police action. However, officials said the operation was carried out with restraint and without major incident.

In a statement posted on X, the Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) said authorities had safely shifted Wangchuk for essential medical care and appealed to remaining protesters to vacate the protest site peacefully.

Health Condition Raises Concern

Medical bulletins issued over the past several days had repeatedly highlighted Wangchuk's declining health.

Doctors reported that he had lost more than eight kilograms since beginning his hunger strike and warned that prolonged starvation was taking a serious toll on his physical condition.

His transfer to the hospital follows continuous monitoring by medical teams stationed at the protest venue.

Demand Over NEET Paper Leak

Wangchuk began the indefinite fast demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over the alleged NEET examination paper leak.

The protest has drawn significant public attention, with Wangchuk insisting that accountability is necessary to restore confidence in India's examination system.

Opposition Leaders Express Support

Several Opposition leaders visited Wangchuk during his fast and expressed solidarity with his demands while urging him to end the hunger strike in view of his worsening health.

Among those who met him were:

• Congress leader Pawan Khera

• Samajwadi Party MP Dimple Yadav

• Aam Aadmi Party chief Arvind Kejriwal

They appealed to the activist to prioritise his health while continuing the campaign through democratic means.

What Happens Next

With Wangchuk now under medical supervision, attention is expected to shift to whether he continues or suspends his hunger strike based on doctors' advice and any future developments regarding his demands.

The Delhi High Court is also expected to continue monitoring the matter as authorities provide updates on his health condition.

Aamir said he was worried about Wangchuk's health as the fast continues and hoped that a constructive resolution would be reached through dialogue. The actor urged authorities and all stakeholders to find a peaceful solution before the situation worsens.

During the conversation, Aamir also clarified that the popular perception linking Sonam Wangchuk directly to the central character of 3 Idiots is a misconception. He said the film's character was not based solely on Wangchuk and added that respecting the social activist's work does not depend on whether he inspired the fictional role.

According to Aamir, Sonam Wangchuk deserves admiration for his contributions to education, sustainable innovation and environmental awareness irrespective of any cinematic connection. He emphasized that the respect people have for Wangchuk should come from his real-life achievements rather than comparisons with a film character.

The debate over the inspiration behind Phunsukh Wangdu has continued ever since 3 Idiots released in 2009. While many viewers associated the character with Sonam Wangchuk because of his work in alternative education and innovation in Ladakh, both Wangchuk and the film's team have, on different occasions, stated that the character was not a direct portrayal of his life.

Aamir's remarks come at a time when Wangchuk's hunger strike has drawn widespread public attention and support from several personalities across the film industry. A number of actors have expressed concern over his health and called for dialogue to address the issues raised through his protest.

The actor's comments have also renewed discussions around 3 Idiots, one of Indian cinema's most celebrated films. Released in 2009 and directed by Rajkumar Hirani, the film remains popular for its message on education, innovation and independent thinking. Although audiences have long connected its lead character with Wangchuk, Aamir reiterated that the association should not overshadow the activist's own accomplishments and public service.

Meanwhile, reports indicate that work on 3 Idiots: Part 2 is currently under development, adding fresh interest to the franchise even as conversations surrounding the original film continue.

The issue has gained momentum on social media, with several actors, comedians and public personalities urging authorities to engage in dialogue and address the concerns being raised through the protest.

In a video shared on Instagram, Sonakshi said she had rarely spoken publicly on such matters but felt compelled to do so this time. Referring to Wangchuk’s contributions and public work, she said he was raising issues that he believed were important for students and young people.

The actor rejected suggestions that speaking on public issues should automatically invite criticism. She said she considers herself a young citizen concerned about the country’s future and therefore had every right to express her views.

“I am not anti-national,” Sonakshi said while questioning why citizens should remain silent when they feel concerns need to be addressed. She also appealed for greater sensitivity toward the situation and called for meaningful engagement before matters escalate further.

Her comments came as Wangchuk’s hunger strike entered its nineteenth day. The protest has attracted growing attention online, with supporters demanding discussions around the issues being highlighted by the activist.

Actor Atul Kulkarni also extended his support and announced that he would observe a one-day fast. According to his statement, the gesture was intended to express solidarity with Wangchuk and to better understand the challenges being faced by those participating in the movement.

Kulkarni appealed to citizens to join him in observing a symbolic fast and urged authorities to respond with empathy and dialogue. The actor said peaceful democratic engagement remains important when public concerns are being raised.

Support also came from actor Fatima Sana Shaikh, who shared a message on social media expressing concern over the prolonged nature of the hunger strike. She said no individual should have to risk their health simply to have their voice heard and hoped that discussions would lead to a constructive resolution.

Comedian Samay Raina joined the growing list of personalities commenting on the issue. Sharing a photograph of Wangchuk on social media, he expressed hope that the activist would remain safe and that a solution could be reached through conversation and mutual understanding.

Veteran poet and humorist Surendra Sharma also issued a video message addressed to Wangchuk. In the message, Sharma appealed to him to reconsider the indefinite fast, arguing that public figures with significant influence should preserve their health while continuing to advocate for their causes.

According to Sharma, many young people view Wangchuk as an inspiration and would be deeply affected by any deterioration in his condition. He urged the activist to continue his campaign through other means while ensuring his well-being.

The developments have further expanded the debate around Wangchuk’s protest, which has generated discussions across social media platforms and public forums. While supporters continue to highlight the issues raised during the agitation, others have called for direct engagement between stakeholders to prevent the situation from becoming more serious.

Several members of the film industry had already voiced support in recent days. Public figures including Shabana Azmi, Soni Razdan, Naseeruddin Shah, Ratna Pathak Shah and filmmaker Anurag Kashyap have commented on the matter, while others have shared messages urging a peaceful resolution.

With more prominent voices joining the conversation, the spotlight remains firmly on the ongoing hunger strike and the calls for dialogue that continue to grow louder.

The viral image, widely circulated on platforms including X and Instagram, purportedly showed Deepika expressing support for Wangchuk during his ongoing hunger strike at Delhi's Jantar Mantar. The screenshot quickly sparked online debate, with some users claiming the actress had deleted the Story shortly after posting it.

A review of Deepika Padukone's verified Instagram activity, along with archived social media records and reports from multiple news organisations, found no trace of the alleged Story. Fact-checks concluded that the circulating screenshot was digitally altered and that the claim of Deepika posting and deleting the message was false.

The clarification comes amid growing public attention surrounding Sonam Wangchuk's indefinite hunger strike. The activist has received support from several public figures, including actors Zeenat Aman, Abhay Deol, Naseeruddin Shah, Soni Razdan, Shabana Azmi, Swara Bhasker and Omi Vaidya, all of whom have publicly appealed for dialogue while expressing concern over his health.

Unlike those celebrities, Deepika Padukone has not issued any verified public statement or social media post regarding Wangchuk's protest. Fact-checkers noted that the absence of any official record strongly indicates that the viral screenshot was fabricated to create misinformation.

The incident highlights how edited screenshots and fabricated social media posts can rapidly gain traction during high-profile public events. Experts advise users to verify such claims through verified accounts or credible news sources before sharing them online.

As discussions around Sonam Wangchuk's protest continue, the viral claim involving Deepika Padukone has been debunked, with no evidence supporting the allegation that she posted and later removed an Instagram Story on the issue.

The Delhi High Court on Wednesday sought responses from the Central and Delhi governments on a public interest litigation (PIL) seeking urgent intervention to safeguard the health of climate activist and education reformer Sonam Wangchuk, who has been on an indefinite hunger strike at Jantar Mantar for the past 18 days.

A Division Bench comprising Chief Justice Devendra Kumar Upadhyaya and Justice Tejas Karia issued notices to both governments after the matter was mentioned for urgent hearing. The petition, filed by activist-lawyer Rakesh Kumar Saini, has been listed for further hearing on Thursday.

PIL Raises Concern Over Deteriorating Health

According to the petition, Wangchuk has lost around 8.25 kilograms since beginning his indefinite fast and is reportedly experiencing recurrent episodes of low blood sugar, dizziness, severe weakness and muscle loss.

The plea warns that his condition is deteriorating rapidly and urges immediate intervention to protect his life while respecting his democratic right to protest.

The court has sought responses from the Centre and the Delhi government before taking further action in the matter.

Fast Linked to Education and Ladakh Demands

Wangchuk began the indefinite hunger strike on June 28 after claiming that the Centre did not respond to his demands within the deadline he had set.

His key demands include the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and constitutional safeguards for Ladakh through Sixth Schedule status and full statehood.

Earlier, Wangchuk had indicated that discussions with the Centre on Ladakh-related issues had shown progress and suggested that the remaining issues could be resolved during the Monsoon Session if the government initiated dialogue.

According to organisers, Wangchuk has been consuming only water and salt during the fast.

Support Grows for Protest

Meanwhile, the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) has announced a one-day mass hunger strike on July 16 in solidarity with Wangchuk and students supporting the protest.

CJP founder Abhijit Dipke shared an appeal attributed to Wangchuk, stating that instead of urging him to end the fast, people should ask the government why dialogue has not begun.

The protest at Jantar Mantar has continued to draw supporters from civil society, student organisations and activists.

History of Similar Protests

Wangchuk has previously undertaken several hunger strikes and protest marches demanding constitutional protections for Ladakh.

His past campaigns include an eight-day fast in Leh in 2023, the 'Delhi Chalo Padyatra' in 2024, another hunger strike in Delhi later that year, and a 35-day fast in 2025.

Following protests in Leh in September 2025, Wangchuk was arrested under the National Security Act and remained in custody for nearly six months before being released in March 2026.

Court to Hear Matter Again

With concerns mounting over Wangchuk's health, the Delhi High Court is expected to hear the matter again on Thursday after receiving preliminary responses from the governments.

The outcome of the hearing could determine whether any immediate medical or administrative intervention is directed while the protest continues.

Swara's visit came on the 17th day of Wangchuk's fast, with the actor meeting both the activist and Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) founder Abhijeet Dipke at the protest site. Images from the visit were later shared on social media, where she described Wangchuk as a "real hero" and thanked those continuing the protest despite growing health concerns.

The protest has drawn increasing national attention as Wangchuk's health continues to deteriorate. According to updates shared by supporters, he has lost significant weight during the hunger strike but has chosen to continue the protest while appealing for peaceful democratic dialogue.

Sharing photographs from Jantar Mantar, Swara praised the efforts of Wangchuk and Abhijeet Dipke, saying their campaign was aimed at protecting the future of students and strengthening accountability within the education system. While she did not make any political remarks during the visit, her presence added another prominent voice from the film industry supporting the ongoing agitation.

Over the past few days, several actors and public figures have also appealed for dialogue between the government and Wangchuk. Veteran actors Zeenat Aman, Naseeruddin Shah and Abhay Deol have publicly urged authorities to engage with the activist, expressing concern over his health as the hunger strike entered its third week.

The indefinite fast has become one of the most discussed public protests in the country, with supporters demanding action over issues linked to the education system. Wangchuk, widely known for his work in education and sustainable development, has continued the fast despite repeated appeals from supporters and political leaders to prioritise his health.

Concerns over his medical condition have also reached the courts. A Public Interest Litigation has been filed before the Delhi High Court seeking intervention in view of Wangchuk's deteriorating health, with the court scheduled to hear the matter this week.

Swara Bhasker has frequently spoken on social and public issues, and her appearance at the protest site reflects continued support from sections of the entertainment industry. While neither Wangchuk nor the organisers announced any change in the course of the protest following her visit, the presence of well-known personalities has helped keep public attention focused on the agitation.

As the hunger strike continues, supporters remain hopeful that dialogue between the concerned stakeholders will lead to a peaceful resolution. For now, Jantar Mantar continues to witness visits from activists, public figures and citizens expressing solidarity with Wangchuk as concerns over his health grow with each passing day.

Environmentalist and education reform advocate Sonam Wangchuk entered the 17th day of his indefinite hunger strike at Delhi's Jantar Mantar on Tuesday, with supporters expressing growing concern over his deteriorating health after he reportedly lost 8.5 kilograms since beginning the fast on June 28.

Wangchuk launched the protest demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over the alleged NEET examination paper leak and broader concerns regarding the country's examination system.

Supporters associated with the protest said his physical condition has weakened considerably, prompting renewed appeals from political leaders, public figures and supporters for him to end the fast.

Health Concerns Intensify

According to organisers of the protest, Wangchuk's health has steadily declined during the prolonged fast. They said he has experienced significant weight loss and muscle weakness, raising concerns about his well-being.

CJP founder Abhijit Dipke said supporters have repeatedly requested Wangchuk to end the hunger strike. However, he quoted Wangchuk as saying, "Don't ask me to end my fast. Ask the government why it is not negotiating."

Dipke alleged that the government has not initiated any dialogue despite repeated appeals and warned that Wangchuk's health continues to deteriorate.

Political Leaders Appeal For Dialogue

Several political leaders across party lines have urged Wangchuk to end his fast while asking the government to engage with the protesters.

Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav criticised the Centre, alleging that the government was ignoring the concerns raised through the protest.

Former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal announced that he would visit Jantar Mantar on July 16 to extend support to Wangchuk and the protesters.

Trinamool Congress MP Mahua Moitra appealed to Wangchuk to end his hunger strike, saying his life was valuable and the movement should continue through other democratic means.

Former Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray also expressed support for the protest and appealed to Wangchuk to call off the indefinite fast.

Actor Omi Vaidya and veteran actor Zeenat Aman also voiced concern over Wangchuk's health, urging the government to begin discussions with the protesters.

Background Of The Protest

Wangchuk began the hunger strike seeking accountability over alleged irregularities in the NEET examination process, including the reported paper leak. The protest has drawn support from students, education activists and opposition leaders demanding reforms in the examination system.

Supporters maintain that the movement aims to ensure transparency and restore public confidence in competitive examinations.

Previous Agitation And Detention

Wangchuk has also been associated with campaigns seeking full statehood for Ladakh.

According to his supporters, he was previously detained under the National Security Act (NSA) following unrest during an earlier phase of his agitation in September 2025. They claim he spent 170 days in Jodhpur jail after being arrested in connection with the protests.

The government had earlier alleged that violence during the agitation resulted from incitement, an allegation denied by Wangchuk's supporters.

Government Yet To Respond

The Cockroach Janata Party (CJP), which is backing the agitation, has accused the government of remaining unresponsive despite repeated requests for talks.

Supporters have reiterated that the immediate priority is opening negotiations to address Wangchuk's demands while ensuring his health does not deteriorate further.

As the indefinite fast enters its third week, attention remains focused on whether the Centre initiates dialogue or the protest continues amid growing concerns over Wangchuk's medical condition.

In a video message shared on social media, Vaidya urged people to stand with Wangchuk, describing him as the "real-life Phunsukh Wangdu" — the character in 3 Idiots that was inspired by Wangchuk's life and work. The actor expressed concern over the activist's deteriorating health and appealed to citizens to pay attention to the issues being raised through the protest.

Wangchuk has been on a hunger strike at Jantar Mantar for more than two weeks, demanding accountability over issues related to India's education system and examination reforms. His protest has attracted growing attention from public figures, students and civil society groups, with supporters calling for dialogue between the government and the activist.

Referring to the iconic 2009 film, Omi Vaidya said he did not want the "real Phunsukh Wangdu" to suffer because of his fight for education reforms. His appeal drew an emotional connection between the fictional character and the educator whose work inspired it, urging people not to remain silent while Wangchuk's health continues to decline.

Sonam Wangchuk, an engineer, innovator and education reform advocate from Ladakh, has long been recognised for his work in alternative education, sustainable development and environmental conservation. His achievements earned him international recognition, while his life story inspired Aamir Khan's character in 3 Idiots.

As concern over Wangchuk's health has grown, several public personalities have also voiced support for him. Veteran actor Zeenat Aman recently urged the government to initiate dialogue with the activist, while political leaders from the Opposition have appealed to him to end his fast, citing health concerns without diminishing support for his cause.

According to recent updates, Wangchuk has lost significant body weight during the hunger strike, prompting doctors and supporters to closely monitor his condition. Despite repeated appeals, he has continued the protest, maintaining that meaningful action on education-related issues remains necessary.

The development has once again brought national attention to Wangchuk's role as one of India's most prominent education reform advocates. His campaigns over the years have focused on improving learning systems, encouraging innovation and promoting sustainable development in the Himalayan region.

Omi Vaidya's support has added a symbolic dimension to the ongoing protest because of the enduring popularity of 3 Idiots and its association with Wangchuk's real-life work. As discussions around education reforms continue, the actor's message has amplified public attention towards the hunger strike and renewed calls for constructive engagement between stakeholders.