Indian activist Sonam Wangchuk, who had been on a hunger strike for 21 days in New Delhi, was taken into police custody and transferred to a hospital on Saturday, July 18, 2026. The move followed orders from the Hon’ble High Court and medical advice due to Wangchuk's deteriorating health condition.

Wangchuk, 59, began fasting on June 28 in solidarity with students and supporters of the youth-led Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), who have been protesting against Indian Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. The protesters demand Pradhan's resignation over a controversial entrance exam scandal affecting millions of students.

According to CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke, Wangchuk had lost approximately 8.7 kg (19.1 pounds) by Friday, was visibly weak, and had lost considerable muscle mass. Dipke also reported being stopped by authorities from reaching the protest site at Jantar Mantar, where police have been asking protesters to vacate the grounds.

Tensions escalated as police cracked down on the protestors at Jantar Mantar, with allegations from CJP leaders of forceful removal and physical altercations. Dipke stated on social media that police were "beating up people and taking away Sonam sir forcefully."

Following these events, Dipke declared a shift in demands: "Until now, we were demanding Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation, but after this despicable act, we will now demand the resignation of Narendra Modi," referring to the Indian Prime Minister.

A planned march from Jantar Mantar to the Indian Parliament scheduled for July 20, 2026, has gained traction on social media amid the ongoing protests.

Sources