Sonam Wangchuk’s handwritten statement shared on his official X account on Day 23 of his hunger strike, announcing that he will continue fasting until youth protest leaders are allowed to meet Members of Parliament or he is permitted to meet them at Safdarjung Hospital. Source: Sonam Wangchuk/X.
Protesters gather at the demonstration site during the night ahead of Day 20 of Sonam Wangchuk’s hunger strike in New Delhi. Photo: SMW News.
New Delhi, July 20: Social activist and education reformer Sonam Wangchuk has announced that he will continue his hunger strike, now on Day 23, saying he will not end his fast until representatives of the protesting youth are allowed to meet Members of Parliament at Sansad Bhawan or MPs visit him at Safdarjung Hospital. The statement comes amid growing concerns over the police action against student protesters during the “Chalo Sansad” demonstration.
According to a handwritten note shared from the hospital on Monday, Wangchuk said the treatment of peaceful protesters influenced his decision to extend the indefinite fast.
“Seeing the brutality with which peacefully protesting youth are being dealt with, I have decided to continue my fast until the youth leaders are allowed to meet the Parliamentarians at the Sansad Bhawan or I am allowed to meet them here at the hospital.”
In the same note, Wangchuk said he was moved by the restraint shown by the young protesters despite what he described as provocation. He appealed to both the government and the police to resolve the situation by allowing students to present their grievances before Parliament.
He also expressed hope that accountability over the issues raised by the movement would be addressed, while urging authorities to facilitate dialogue instead of confrontation. Wangchuk added that he believes the protesters would continue to maintain peace and patience if given an opportunity to be heard.
Protest Enters a New Phase
The announcement comes after widespread protests in Delhi, where thousands of students and youth activists gathered under the “Chalo Sansad” campaign demanding accountability over alleged examination irregularities and broader education reforms. Reports of clashes between protesters and Delhi Police have drawn national attention and intensified calls for dialogue between the government and student representatives.
Wangchuk, who is currently admitted to Safdarjung Hospital, has become the symbolic face of the movement through his ongoing fast. His latest statement indicates that he intends to continue the protest until there is direct engagement between lawmakers and the youth leading the demonstrations.
What Happens Next?
The continuation of Wangchuk’s hunger strike places renewed focus on the government’s response and the possibility of dialogue between protesters and Parliament. With public attention fixed on both his health and the demands of the student movement, developments in the coming days are expected to shape the next phase of the ongoing protests.
