Activist Sonam Wangchuk during the hunger strike along with the Cockroach Janta Party at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi on July 16, 2026.
| Photo Credit:
Shashi Shekhar Kashyap
With activist Sonam Wangchuk’s health condition worsening on the 19th day of his indefinite hunger strike at Jantar Mantar, the Delhi High Court ordered the Union and Delhi governments to ensure regular monitoring of his health.Doctors warned on Thursday (July 16, 2026) that Mr. Wangchuk’s health condition had entered a critical stage. Satish Lamba, a doctor who has been examining Mr. Wangchuk regularly, said he has lost over 9 kg, but remains “mentally alert”. However, Dr. Lamba warned later in the evening that his body was likely consuming muscles and his organs may be next.Also read | Voices from Opposition, film industry rally in Wangchuk’s supportMr. Wangchuk, however, remained resolute saying calling off his fast without any response from the government would send a wrong message. Instead, he urged people to strengthen the Cockroach Janta Party’s (CJP) proposed Parliament march on July 20.Watch | From ice stupas to hunger strikes: The journey of Sonam WangchukThe Delhi High Court ordered that Mr. Wangchuk must be “regularly medically checked up by government doctors.” Mr. Wangchuk has been on a hunger strike demanding Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan’s resignation over issues concerning the country’s education system.Follow the live updates below: Published - July 17, 2026 09:50 am IST
