CJP announces nationwide hunger strike on July 16 as Sonam Wangchuk's indefinite fast enters Day 18

The protest against the alleged NEET-UG paper leak is set to widen on July 16, with the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) announcing a nationwide one-day mass hunger strike in support of activist Sonam Wangchuk.

The call comes as Wangchuk completes 18 days of his indefinite fast, demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, accountability for alleged examination irregularities, and direct talks between the Centre and protesters.

In a post on X, the organisation appealed for widespread public participation, describing the hunger strike as a collective show of support for students seeking accountability over the NEET-UG controversy and other alleged paper leak cases.

The announcement comes days before the group's proposed 'Chalo Sansad' march, signalling an escalation of the protest as Parliament prepares to convene for the Monsoon Session.

Wangchuk, widely known for his work in education, innovation and environmental conservation, joined the CJP-led protest at Jantar Mantar on June 28. Since then, he has remained on an indefinite hunger strike, saying he will continue until the government addresses the protesters' key demands.

As Wangchuk's hunger strike entered its 18th day, organisers said his health had deteriorated considerably.

CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke claimed the activist has lost around 8.5 kg since beginning the fast and is suffering from muscle loss and severe physical discomfort after more than two weeks without food.

The developments have prompted appeals from political leaders across party lines, civil society members and public figures, urging Wangchuk to end his fast while calling on the Centre to engage with the protesters.

Among those who have appealed to Wangchuk are Arvind Kejriwal, Mamata Banerjee and Shashi Tharoor. Actor Omi Vaidya, known for his role in 3 Idiots, has also urged a peaceful resolution through dialogue.

Despite the appeals, Wangchuk has indicated that he has no immediate plans to call off the hunger strike unless the government agrees to hold discussions on the protesters' demands.

What is the Cockroach Janta Party?

Founded by Abhijeet Dipke, the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) is a satirical citizens' movement that has emerged as one of the groups leading demonstrations over alleged irregularities in the NEET-UG examination.

For nearly a month, its members have been staging a continuous sit-in at Delhi's Jantar Mantar, demanding greater accountability in the conduct of competitive examinations and pressing for the resignation of the Union Education Minister.

The group argues that repeated controversies surrounding national entrance examinations have eroded public confidence in the system and is seeking institutional reforms to improve transparency and fairness.

Alongside Wednesday's nationwide hunger strike, the CJP is preparing for its 'Chalo Sansad' march scheduled for July 20, the opening day of Parliament's Monsoon Session.

Party spokesperson Ashutosh Ranka said more than 1.3 lakh people have registered support for the march through the organisation's missed-call campaign, with participation expected from students, activists and citizens from different parts of the country.