Events

Sonam Wangchuk is urged to put an end to the hunger strike by Kapil Sibal, who claims that the government will not listen.

By Kajal Sharma - 16 Jul 2026 05:37 PM

Senior Advocate and Rajya Sabha MP Kapil Sibal has appealed to activist and education reformer Sonam Wangchuk to end his indefinite hunger strike, expressing deep concern over Wangchuk's deteriorating health. Addressing the media, Sibal acknowledged Wangchuk's commitment and sacrifice but said that continuing the fast could put his life at serious risk. He remarked that if the government was not prepared to respond to the protest, there was no reason for Wangchuk to continue risking his health. Sibal stressed that the country still needs leaders like Wangchuk to fight many important public issues in the future and urged him to preserve his strength for those battles. Sibal also criticized the Central Government, describing it as insensitive to public concerns and alleging that it has repeatedly ignored democratic voices. He said that Wangchuk enjoys immense respect across the country because of his honesty, dedication, and willingness to stand up for people's rights. According to Sibal, public movements require committed leaders who can continue working over the long term, rather than sacrificing themselves when there is little indication that the authorities will respond. He assured Wangchuk that many people continue to support his cause and that the struggle for justice can continue through democratic means instead of an indefinite fast.

Wangchuk has now spent nearly three weeks on hunger strike, demanding accountability over alleged irregularities in competitive examinations and seeking the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. Doctors monitoring his condition have warned that he has lost more than nine kilograms and faces increasing health risks, including the possibility of organ damage if the fast continues. Despite these concerns, Wangchuk has remained firm in his decision, saying that he will continue his protest until meaningful action is taken. The issue has also reached the courts. The Delhi High Court directed the Centre and the Delhi Government to regularly monitor Wangchuk's medical condition and ensure that appropriate medical intervention is provided if doctors consider it necessary. The court observed that the protection of life is of utmost importance while respecting the democratic right to peaceful protest. The legal proceedings have further highlighted growing concern over Wangchuk's health as public support for his movement continues to expand. Apart from Kapil Sibal, several public figures have appealed to Wangchuk to end his fast while continuing his campaign through dialogue and democratic engagement. Senior lawyers, social activists, and public personalities have expressed solidarity with his demands but have emphasized that his life is too valuable to be endangered. The developments have intensified the national debate on government accountability, examination reforms, and the importance of constructive dialogue between citizens and the administration.

 

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