CJP protest day 20: Wangchuk loses 7 kg, AISA member hospitalised
New Delhi: The protest by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) at Jantar Mantar entered its 20th day on Thursday, with climate activist and educator Sonam Wangchuk’s health deteriorating during his indefinite hunger strike. An All India Students’ Association (AISA) member participating in the protest was also hospitalised after developing serious health complications.
Sonam Wangchuk’s health declines during fast
According to a health bulletin issued by doctors, Wangchuk has lost more than seven kilograms since beginning his indefinite fast 11 days ago.
His weight was recorded at 59.40 kg, while his blood pressure was 103/68 mm Hg in a sitting position and 111/73 mm Hg while lying down. His heart rate was 74 beats per minute, blood glucose level was 75 mg/dL, and oxygen saturation stood at 98 per cent.
Doctors said his hydration level was fair and that he remained mentally alert despite the weight loss.
AISA member hospitalised after health complications
AISA member Hrishikesh, who was also on an indefinite hunger strike at the protest site, was admitted to Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital after experiencing severe health issues.
AISA said Hrishikesh suffered chest pain and was unable to move his limbs for nearly 24 hours. He was administered intravenous fluids at the hospital, bringing his 11-day hunger strike to an end.
Four other students, Neha, Manish, Deepak Kumar Verma and Aameen, continued their fast at the protest site.
Support grows for agitation
A delegation from the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (SKM) visited the protest site on Tuesday and expressed solidarity with the protesters. The group supported demands including Pradhan’s resignation, scrapping of the National Testing Agency (NTA), compensation for families of students who died by suicide, and action against those responsible for alleged examination irregularities.
The protesters also welcomed the Delhi High Court’s decision restoring CJP’s original X handle, which had been withheld in May. CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke described the order as a victory for the movement, free speech and digital rights.
Background of examination controversy
The CJP has been demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, alleging repeated examination irregularities and paper leaks that have affected the lives of students and their families.
The protest began on June 20. It follows allegations of irregularities in major competitive examinations, including the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET-UG). The medical entrance exam held on May 3 was cancelled after allegations of a paper leak, and a re-test was conducted on June 21.
(With PTI inputs)