Arvind Kejriwal meets activist Sonam Wangchuk at Jantar Mantar during the latter’s ongoing hunger strike. | Photo: Public Instagram post
As Sonam Wangchuk’s hunger strike entered its 19th day at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi, the protest has drawn support from several political leaders, farmer representatives, activists and public figures. Wangchuk launched the indefinite fast demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over the alleged irregularities in the NEET-UG 2026 examination and broader concerns surrounding the country’s examination system.
With Wangchuk’s health reportedly deteriorating, leaders from different political parties have visited the protest site, expressing solidarity and urging the government to engage with his demands.
Arvind Kejriwal Backs Wangchuk’s Protest
Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) National Convenor and former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal visited Wangchuk at Jantar Mantar on Day 19 of the hunger strike. During his visit, Kejriwal extended support to the activist and reiterated his demand for the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. He also appealed to the Centre to address the concerns raised by students and protesters.
Samajwadi Party Leaders Visit Jantar Mantar
A delegation from the Samajwadi Party also met Wangchuk at the protest site. Those who visited included:
- Dimple Yadav, Member of Parliament from Mainpuri.
- Dharmendra Yadav, Member of Parliament from Azamgarh.
- Ragini Sonkar, MLA from Machhlishahr.
The leaders expressed solidarity with Wangchuk and stated that students across the country deserve a transparent and fair examination system.
Rakesh Tikait Extends Farmers’ Support
Rakesh Tikait, national spokesperson of the Bharatiya Kisan Union (BKU), also visited Wangchuk at Jantar Mantar. Tikait backed the protest and voiced support for the demand to protect the interests of students and ensure accountability in the examination process.
Congress Leader Supriya Shrinate Meets Wangchuk
Congress national spokesperson and Chairperson of the party’s Social Media Department Supriya Shrinate visited Wangchuk during the hunger strike. While extending the Congress party’s support, she also appealed to the activist to end his fast, citing concerns over his declining health and many more.
Abhijeet Dipke Continues to Stand Beside Wangchuk
Activist Abhijeet Dipke, founder of the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) youth movement, has remained one of the most visible faces at the protest. Dipke has been continuously present at Jantar Mantar, coordinating with supporters, addressing the media and repeatedly urging Wangchuk to prioritise his health.
Celebrities Who Have Publicly Supported Sonam Wangchuk
Although they have not been confirmed to have visited the protest site, several actors have publicly voiced support for Wangchuk’s movement through social media and public statements. These include:
- Sonakshi Sinha
- Fatima Sana Shaikh
- Imran Khan
- Aditi Rao Hydari and many more across India.
Actor Atul Kulkarni also announced that he would observe a one-day hunger strike in solidarity with Wangchuk.
Growing Support Amid Health Concerns
As Wangchuk’s fast entered its nineteenth day, concerns over his health intensified. Doctors have continued to monitor his condition, while supporters and opposition leaders have urged the government to engage in dialogue before the situation worsens.
The growing number of visits from political leaders, farmer representatives and activists reflects the increasing national attention surrounding Wangchuk’s protest and the demands for greater accountability in India’s examination system.
Also read – Sonam Wangchuk Hunger Strike Enters Day 17: Is India Waiting for a Tragedy Before It Listens?
