Sonam Wangchuk Loses 6 Kg as Jantar Mantar Exam Protest Enters 16th Day
A protest led by the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) demanding the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over alleged examination irregularities entered its 16th day at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi on Sunday, July 5, 2026. Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, who joined the demonstration with an indefinite hunger strike, completed his eighth day of fasting.
According to a medical bulletin released on Sunday, Wangchuk has lost approximately six kilograms since he began his indefinite fast. Doctors monitoring his health reported that his blood pressure was 112/70 mm Hg while lying down. His heart rate was recorded at 72 beats per minute, and his blood sugar level had dropped to 67 mg/dL.
The CJP has continued to demand the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. The political group alleges that repeated examination irregularities and paper leaks have severely affected the lives of students and their families across the country.
On Sunday, July 5, 2026, the protest site at Jantar Mantar saw the participation of Cockroach Janata Party founder Abhijeet Dipke. Alongside Dipke was the father of a 23-year-old NEET aspirant from Dehradun who had allegedly died by suicide. The grieving father joined the hunger strike to demand accountability and immediate action over the alleged examination irregularities that have sparked widespread concern.
The CJP's campaign has focused heavily on the impact of these academic disruptions. The organizers have stated that repeated paper leaks and irregularities in key national exams have caused severe distress to students and their families, leading to tragic outcomes.
Meanwhile, the health of climate activist Sonam Wangchuk remains a central concern as his indefinite hunger strike crossed the one-week mark. Doctors who examined Wangchuk on Sunday noted that his vital signs are being closely monitored. His blood pressure was measured at 112/70 mm Hg in a lying position, while his heart rate was 72 beats per minute. His blood sugar level was recorded at 67 mg/dL, reflecting the physical toll of the eight-day fast.
