US Group Backs Sonam Wangchuk Hunger Strike, Plans Washington Rally

The US-based advocacy group Hindus for Human Rights (HFHR) has announced its support for social activist Sonam Wangchuk's hunger strike, planning a solidarity gathering at the Gandhi Statue in Washington, DC. Along with the event, the group has written an open letter to the Narendra Modi government to express grave concern over Wangchuk's rapidly deteriorating health.

Wangchuk has been on a hunger strike for 20 days to demand the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. The ongoing protest seeks accountability over alleged examination irregularities and failures in educational governance, which organizers say have severely impacted millions of students and their families.

The solidarity gathering in Washington, DC, is scheduled to take place on Friday at 4:00 PM (US time). HFHR is organizing the event in partnership with the Azadi Project to draw international attention to the protest.

In its open letter to the central government, HFHR highlighted that Wangchuk’s health has worsened significantly during his fast, which had entered its 19th day at the time of the letter's drafting. Organizers reported that the social activist has lost approximately 8.5 kilograms since beginning his strike.

The physical toll of the protest has also affected participating youth. At least three student protesters have reportedly been hospitalized due to the hunger strike. Among them, one student had to be treated for hypovolemic shock as a result of the fast.

HFHR explained its support by emphasizing the spiritual context of the protest. The organization stated that fasting holds deep significance in Hindu traditions, where it is viewed as an act of discipline, reflection, and moral protest against injustice.

The demonstration continues to focus on demanding systemic accountability within the national educational administration, specifically targeting the leadership of Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan following recent controversies.