Sonam Wangchuk Hunger Strike Live: Delhi HC Hearing, Health Updates Today

Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk remains admitted to VMMC & Safdarjung Hospital as supporters gather at Jantar Mantar for the planned 'Chalo Sansad' march on the opening day of Parliament's Monsoon Session. Delhi Police have said no permission has been granted for the march and have deployed heavy security across central Delhi. Meanwhile, Wangchuk's wife has challenged the Delhi High Court's refusal to immediately allow his transfer to a private hospital, while the activist has outlined the conditions under which he says he will end his hunger strike.

Stay with us for verified live updates on Sonam Wangchuk's health, his hunger strike, legal developments, political reactions and the planned Parliament march.

The Guardian had earlier reported that Wangchuk became visibly weaker after more than two weeks on hunger strike. According to the report, he apologised to visitors, saying, "I'm sorry, but I'm unable to speak," as he conserved energy during the protest. Doctors quoted by the newspaper warned that the prolonged fast had entered a dangerous stage, with growing concerns over severe starvation and potential organ complications if it continued.

LIVE UPDATES

22 July 2026

10:27 AM | Jitendra Singh, JP Nadda Visit Sonam Wangchuk At Medanta Hospital

Minister of State for the Prime Minister's Office Dr Jitendra Singh and Union Health Minister Jagat Prakash Nadda visited Medanta Hospital in Gurugram to enquire about the health of activist Sonam Wangchuk, sources said. The ministers met Wangchuk after he was shifted to the hospital for medical care.

21 July 2026

9:10 PM IST | CJP says all detained protesters released, police headquarters protest called off

CJP chief spokesperson Saurav Das said all detained protesters had been released following Monday's 'Chalo Sansad' march. He added that the party had called off its proposed sit-in outside the Delhi Police headquarters after the releases.

7:46 PM IST | Pappu Yadav condemns police action

Independent MP Pappu Yadav criticised the police response to the student protests, alleging that force had been used against young demonstrators and expressing support for the Opposition's stand on the issue.

7:44 PM IST | Jairam Ramesh demands Parliament debate

Congress leader Jairam Ramesh said the Opposition would continue demanding a detailed discussion in Parliament on the education system, the alleged NEET irregularities and the police action against protesters. He also reiterated the Opposition's demand for Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation.

7:00 PM | Rahul Gandhi And Priyanka Gandhi Detained During Protest Outside PM’s Residence

Congress MP and Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi was detained by the Delhi Police while protesting outside Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s residence. Police personnel removed Gandhi from the protest site and took him away. Further details on the detention are awaited.

2:00 PM | Delhi HC Allows Sonam Wangchuk’s Transfer To Medanta Hospital

Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk’s wife Geetanjali Angmo thanked the Delhi High Court for allowing his discharge and transfer to Medanta Hospital, the family’s preferred choice for treatment.

She also expressed gratitude to lawyer Kapil Sibal, advocate Bahuli Sharma and their teams for securing the order in a short span of time.

01:00 PM | Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi Meet Injured Protesters

Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi, along with Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, visited the injured protesters at RML Hospital.

09:00 AM IST | Diljit Dosanjh backs student protesters

Singer-actor Diljit Dosanjh voiced support for students protesting over the CJP issue, saying they should not have been treated the way they were during Tuesday's demonstrations.

Today in his Instagram Story, he urged authorities to listen to the students' demands, writing, "The voice of the people is the voice of God." Referring to the criticism he faced during the farmers' protest, Dosanjh said he expected similar backlash again, adding, "God is watching everything. May God bless everyone."

ALSO WATCH: "Cockroaches" vs. the State

20 July 2026

6:40 PM IST | Rahul Gandhi accuses Centre of targeting students

Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi criticised the Centre over its handling of the CJP protest, alleging that students protesting against the alleged NEET paper leak were met with "batons and detention" instead of answers. He also reiterated his demand for Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation.

6:35 PM IST | Abhijeet Dipke alleges excessive police force

CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke alleged that police used excessive force during the protest, claiming several students were injured. These allegations have not been independently verified, and Delhi Police has not responded specifically to these claims.

6:34 PM IST | Sonam Wangchuk says he will continue hunger strike

Sonam Wangchuk said he will continue his hunger strike, now in its 23rd day, until youth leaders protesting under the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) are allowed to meet Members of Parliament at Parliament House or he is allowed to meet them at Safdarjung Hospital.

In a handwritten note shared by his wife, Gitanjali Angmo, Wangchuk said he had decided to continue the fast after witnessing what he described as the treatment of peaceful protesters. He also appealed to the government and Delhi Police to resolve the situation by allowing students to present their grievances before Parliament.

Wangchuk added that he hoped the government would fix accountability for the education minister before then.

6:26 PM IST | CJP says sit-in protest continues

The Cockroach Janta Party said its sit-in protest was continuing outside Kerala House, with founder Abhijeet Dipke, spokespersons Saurav Das and Ashutosh Ranka, and Sonam Wangchuk's wife Gitanjali Angmo remaining at the site despite the day's police action.

6:04 PM IST | Delhi Police appeal for calm

Delhi Police appealed to protesters to maintain peace and law and order, urging demonstrators to avoid unlawful activities and asking the public not to circulate rumours or unverified information on social media.

5:57 PM IST | Akhilesh Yadav says issue will be raised again in Parliament

Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav said the Opposition would continue raising the alleged NEET irregularities and the police response to the protests when Parliament reconvenes. He also alleged that the government had failed to anticipate the scale of the demonstrations.

5:45 PM IST | Protest site cleared as police dismantle tents

Delhi Police and security personnel dismantled tents and other temporary structures at the Jantar Mantar protest site after clearing demonstrators from the area.

5:12 PM IST | CJP outlines three demands submitted to J. P. Nadda

After meeting Union Minister J. P. Nadda, CJP spokesperson Ashutosh Ranka said the delegation submitted three key demands:

• Immediate release of Sonam Wangchuk.

• Resignation or removal of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.

• Compensation of ₹1 crore for the families of students who allegedly died by suicide following the NEET paper leak.

Ranka said Nadda told the delegation he would discuss the demands with the BJP leadership before responding.

4:56 PM IST | Gaurav Gogoi criticises police action

Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi described the use of tear gas against protesters as "absolutely unfortunate" while speaking to reporters inside the Parliament complex.

4:52 PM IST | CJP submits memorandum to J. P. Nadda

A CJP delegation submitted a written memorandum to Union Minister J. P. Nadda after meeting him in New Delhi. The memorandum outlines the organisation's demands over the alleged NEET irregularities and education reforms.

4:45 PM IST | Delhi High Court adjourns Wangchuk case to Tuesday

The Delhi High Court adjourned the hearing on Sonam Wangchuk's plea until Tuesday. The court directed that the doctor overseeing Wangchuk's treatment at Safdarjung Hospital and a doctor trusted by Wangchuk should be present at the next hearing.

The Bench also observed that if any urgent medical intervention becomes necessary, it should not be carried out without the approval of the Director of AIIMS.

4:41 PM IST | J. P. Nadda appeals to protesters to end sit-in

Following his meeting with CJP representatives, Union Minister J. P. Nadda said discussions had taken place in a cordial atmosphere and confirmed that the delegation had submitted a written petition.

He appealed to protesters to end the sit-in and cooperate with the administration in restoring normalcy.

4:28 PM IST | Government may issue statement on meeting

Sources said the government is likely to issue an official statement on the meeting between Union Minister J. P. Nadda and the CJP delegation. They also indicated that protesters at Jantar Mantar would not be forcibly removed.

4:25 PM IST | Abhijeet Dipke addresses supporters at Jantar Mantar

CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke addressed supporters gathered at Jantar Mantar after reports earlier in the day suggested he had been detained. His appearance followed the party's clarification that he had not been arrested.

4:21 PM IST | Delhi Police deny viral claim about injured child protester

Delhi Police denied social media claims that a 12-year-old protester had been assaulted during the demonstrations, calling the posts false and urging the public not to circulate misleading information.

4:18 PM IST | CJP delegation formally meets J. P. Nadda

A delegation of CJP leaders met Union Minister J. P. Nadda and handed over a letter detailing the organisation's demands. The meeting followed hours of protests and clashes near Parliament.

4:02 PM IST | Police use tear gas near Raisina Road

Delhi Police used tear gas to disperse protesters near Raisina Road as security personnel prevented demonstrators from advancing towards Parliament.

3:46 PM IST | Crowds disperse from Connaught Place

The situation around Connaught Place eased as crowds gradually dispersed, although heavy traffic congestion continued across parts of central Delhi.

3:43 PM IST | Police clear Jantar Mantar protest site

Delhi Police began clearing protesters from Jantar Mantar as the day's Parliament march wound down.

3:33 PM IST | CJP says Abhijeet Dipke has not been arrested

CJP spokesperson Saurav Das said on X that founder Abhijeet Dipke had neither been detained nor arrested by Delhi Police. He added that a large number of protesters remained gathered outside Kerala House as demonstrations continued.

3:25 PM IST | CJP vows protest will continue despite police action

CJP supporters said they would continue the Parliament march despite tear gas, baton charges and barricades. Protesters reiterated their demand for Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation over the alleged NEET irregularities.

3:15 PM IST | Police baton-charge protesters near Patel Chowk

Police used batons to disperse protesters near Patel Chowk as clashes continued during the CJP's Parliament march.

3:14 PM IST | Lok Sabha adjourned for the day

Lok Sabha proceedings were adjourned for the day after repeated disruptions by Opposition members over the alleged NEET paper leak and other issues.

3:09 PM IST | Priyanka Gandhi criticises police action

Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi condemned the police response to the CJP protest, questioning the use of tear gas against student protesters and calling for dialogue with those demonstrating.

2:43 PM IST | CJP delegation meets JP Nadda

CJP spokespersons Saurav Das and Ashutosh Ranka met Union Minister JP Nadda and submitted a written memorandum outlining the organisation's demands. Das said Nadda assured them he would discuss the matter internally.

2:39 PM IST | Amit Shah meets Dharmendra Pradhan

Union Home Minister Amit Shah met Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan at Parliament House while the CJP's 'Chalo Sansad' protest was underway. The agenda of the meeting was not officially disclosed.

2:02 PM IST | Tear gas fired near Parliament as protesters advance

Delhi Police fired tear gas shells at protesters on Raisina Road after demonstrators marching as part of the CJP's 'Chalo Sansad' protest reached within about 200 metres of Parliament. Security forces attempted to stop the march as protesters continued moving towards the Parliament complex.

1:56 PM IST | Police detain protesters at Rafi Marg

Students and youth protesters staged a sit-in after being stopped at Rafi Marg, one of the roads leading towards Parliament. Delhi Police later detained several protesters and cleared the area.

1:40 PM IST | CJP alleges internet shutdown in parts of central Delhi

The Cockroach Janta Party alleged that mobile internet services had been disrupted in parts of Delhi during the Parliament march. Authorities had not immediately confirmed the claim.

1:30 PM IST | CJP condemns use of tear gas

The CJP accused police of using tear gas against peaceful protesters near Parliament and questioned the security response to the march in posts on social media.

12:40 PM IST | Protesters stopped at Sansad Marg

Security personnel stopped protesters marching towards Parliament outside Sansad Marg Police Station. Police used batons to push back the crowd and several protesters received first aid after sustaining minor injuries.

12:30 PM IST | CJP claims Centre has reached out for talks

The Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) claimed on Monday that the Centre had contacted its leaders for the first time since the protest began at Jantar Mantar. CJP spokespersons Saurav Das and Ashutosh Ranka said they were on their way to meet Union Minister JP Nadda after the government reached out earlier in the day. There has been no official confirmation from the Centre.

12:20 PM IST | CJP says it is open to dialogue with the government

Ahead of the proposed meeting, CJP spokesperson Saurav Das said the organisation was willing to hold talks with the government despite the late outreach.

They have come very late, but we have opened our hearts and said that we are willing to talk to them. The ball is in their court," Das said.

11:45 AM IST | Protesters clash with police during Chalo Sansad march

Tensions escalated in central Delhi as CJP supporters attempted to march towards Parliament despite prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita. Protesters alleged that police used lathis to disperse demonstrators near Parliament Street, while Delhi Police denied reports of excessive force.

11:20 AM IST | Opposition raises protest issue in Parliament

During the Monsoon Session of Parliament, Leader of the Opposition in the Rajya Sabha Mallikarjun Kharge alleged that protesters marching in support of Sonam Wangchuk had been subjected to a lathi-charge and urged the government to address concerns over the alleged NEET irregularities.

10:45 AM IST | Sonam Wangchuk's wife says fast can end if Parliament discusses demands

Gitanjali J. Angmo said Sonam Wangchuk would end his hunger strike if political leaders assured him that the issues raised by the protesters would be discussed during the Monsoon Session of Parliament. She also challenged a Delhi High Court order refusing immediate permission to transfer him from Safdarjung Hospital to a private medical facility.

9:43 AM IST | Chandra Shekhar Azad and Prakash Raj join protesters

Aazad Samaj Party MP Chandra Shekhar Azad and actor Prakash Raj arrived at Jantar Mantar ahead of the proposed Parliament march in support of the protesters.

9:15 AM IST | Police say around 8,000 protesters have gathered

Delhi Police said around 8,000 people had gathered at Jantar Mantar ahead of the proposed 'Chalo Sansad' march. Authorities continue to maintain that permission has not been granted for the procession.

8:58 AM IST | Wife challenges High Court order

Gitanjali J. Angmo has challenged the Delhi High Court's order refusing to immediately permit Sonam Wangchuk's transfer to a private hospital. The appeal argues that the order infringes Wangchuk's right to decide his medical treatment and place of treatment and seeks an urgent hearing before a Division Bench.

7:54 AM IST | Wangchuk outlines conditions to end hunger strike

In a handwritten note from Safdarjung Hospital, Sonam Wangchuk said he would end his hunger strike if the Centre accepted accountability for recent failures in the education system or if CJP leaders were allowed to meet Members of Parliament and received an assurance that the issue would be discussed during the Monsoon Session.

7:36 AM IST | Heavy security deployed across central Delhi

Delhi Police deployed heavy security around Jantar Mantar, Parliament and other key locations ahead of the proposed march. Authorities have imposed prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the BNSS in the New Delhi district.

19 July 2026

9:57 PM IST | Security tightened ahead of Parliament march

Delhi Police stepped up security across central Delhi ahead of the proposed 'Chalo Sansad' march on Monday. Multiple barricades, surveillance measures and additional personnel have been deployed around the Parliament area as authorities reiterated that no permission has been granted for the proposed procession.

9:09 PM IST | Hospital says Wangchuk's condition remains stable

Safdarjung Hospital said Sonam Wangchuk remains clinically stable and that some blood parameters have shown marginal improvement. Doctors said he continues to require round-the-clock medical care because of the physiological stress caused by his prolonged hunger strike. A multidisciplinary team from Safdarjung Hospital and AIIMS is supervising his treatment.

9:02 PM IST | Wife says Wangchuk will end fast if political leaders give assurance

Gitanjali J. Angmo said Sonam Wangchuk would end his hunger strike on Wednesday if political leaders meet him and assure him that the issue of education accountability will be raised during Parliament's Monsoon Session.

7:55 PM IST | Delhi Police reiterate no permission for Parliament march

Delhi Police said no permission has been sought or granted for the proposed Parliament march on 20 July. Authorities said prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the BNSS remain in force in New Delhi district and warned that unauthorised marches and assemblies would not be allowed.

4:03 PM IST | Delhi High Court says medical team will decide treatment

While hearing the petition filed by Wangchuk's wife, the Delhi High Court said the treating medical team would take all decisions regarding his medical condition in accordance with established medical protocol. The court also directed that medical reports should continue to be shared with his family.

3:57 PM IST | Delhi High Court declines immediate request to shift Wangchuk to private hospital

The Delhi High Court declined to immediately allow Sonam Wangchuk's transfer from Safdarjung Hospital to a private hospital of the family's choice. The court heard the plea filed by his wife, Gitanjali J. Angmo, seeking his discharge and transfer for further treatment.

3:47 PM IST | Delhi High Court says government acted within its powers

During the hearing, the Delhi High Court observed that since Sonam Wangchuk had not voluntarily admitted himself to a hospital despite his deteriorating health, the government was within its rights to intervene and provide medical care.

3:44 PM IST | Delhi High Court says Wangchuk is not under detention

The Delhi High Court observed that Sonam Wangchuk is not under police detention, noting that members of his immediate family, including his wife, brother and brother-in-law, have been allowed access to him in hospital.

3:20 PM IST | Kapil Sibal seeks Wangchuk's transfer to Medanta Hospital

Senior Advocate Kapil Sibal, appearing for Sonam Wangchuk, told the Delhi High Court that the family wanted to shift him to Medanta Hospital. He argued that Wangchuk's own doctors and legal team had not been allowed access and sought his discharge from Safdarjung Hospital so he could receive treatment at the private facility.

1:48 PM IST | Hospital releases case summary

Safdarjung Hospital released a medical case summary stating that Sonam Wangchuk was admitted at 7:40 AM on 18 July after a 20-day fast. The hospital said he was conscious with stable pulse, blood pressure and oxygen saturation on admission but showed signs of dehydration. It added that he had refused intravenous fluids, oral rehydration solution and medication despite repeated counselling.

1:17 PM IST | Naveen Patnaik urges Centre to hold talks with students

BJD president Naveen Patnaik urged the Centre to begin meaningful dialogue with students protesting alleged examination irregularities and called for a discussion on the issue in Parliament. He said students should be allowed to express their concerns peacefully and sought accountability over the conduct of competitive examinations.

12:21 PM IST | Delhi Police say Parliament march has no permission

Delhi Police said Cockroach Janta Party protesters had neither obtained permission to continue their protest at Jantar Mantar nor applied for permission to hold the proposed Parliament march on 20 July. Police said restrictions under Section 163 remain in force in New Delhi district.

12:16 PM IST | Hospital says Wangchuk remains alert and clinically stable

Safdarjung Hospital Medical Superintendent Dr Charu Bamba said Sonam Wangchuk remains fully alert, conscious and oriented. She said his blood pressure, pulse rate and oxygen saturation remain within the normal range, although some laboratory parameters continue to be mildly abnormal because of his prolonged fast. He remains under continuous observation.

9:43 AM IST | Wife moves Delhi High Court seeking transfer to private hospital

Gitanjali J. Angmo has approached the Delhi High Court seeking permission to shift Sonam Wangchuk from Safdarjung Hospital to a private hospital of the family's choice. She questioned the handling of his treatment and said the family had lost confidence in the current arrangements.

8:51 AM IST | Hospital says Wangchuk under multidisciplinary medical care

Safdarjung Hospital said Sonam Wangchuk's vital signs remain stable, although some blood parameters continue to be marginally altered following his prolonged fast. The hospital said he is being treated under the supervision of a multidisciplinary medical team, with an AIIMS specialist joining his care.

18 July 2026

3:47 PM IST | Doctors say Wangchuk refuses treatment despite deteriorating health indicators

Doctors at Safdarjung Hospital said Sonam Wangchuk remains under continuous medical observation after showing signs of dehydration, compensated acidosis, low serum potassium and rising urinary ketone levels following his prolonged hunger strike. According to hospital sources, Wangchuk has declined intravenous fluids, oral rehydration solution and medication despite medical advice. Doctors said they are continuing to counsel him to accept treatment.

3:26 PM IST | Doctors continue monitoring Wangchuk, counsel family on treatment

According to ANI, doctors at Safdarjung Hospital are closely monitoring Sonam Wangchuk's condition after detecting dehydration, low potassium levels and rising ketone levels. Hospital authorities are counselling the family to allow treatment to begin in order to prevent further complications.

2:12 PM IST | Wife writes to hospital over medical consent

Gitanjali J Angmo has written to the Medical Superintendent of Safdarjung Hospital, reiterating that no oral or intravenous substance should be administered to Sonam Wangchuk without the consent of his family.

2:06 PM IST | Wangchuk's wife says hunger strike is continuing

Sonam Wangchuk's wife, Gitanjali J Angmo, said his indefinite hunger strike is continuing despite his admission to Safdarjung Hospital. She said Wangchuk had refused electrolyte powder offered by doctors and confirmed that the planned 20 July 'Chalo Sansad' march would go ahead.

"Sonam Wangchuk has fasted for 20 days, and it is still going on. The doctors spoke about giving him electrolyte powder, but he refused. His fast is still continuing," she said.

1:36 PM IST | Woman detained after ink attack on Abhijeet Dipke

Delhi Police detained a woman after she allegedly threw ink at Cockroach Janta Party founder Abhijeet Dipke while he was addressing supporters at Jantar Mantar. The motive behind the incident was not immediately known.

1:16 PM IST | Wangchuk's wife seeks transfer to hospital of family's choice

Gitanjali J. Angmo has written to Safdarjung Hospital requesting that Sonam Wangchuk be shifted to a hospital of the family's choice. She said the family's trust had been affected by what she described as a lack of transparency regarding his treatment and asked that he be transferred for further medical care.

11:31 AM IST | Safdarjung Hospital says Wangchuk has mild dehydration

Safdarjung Hospital Medical Superintendent Dr. Charu Bamba said Sonam Wangchuk was admitted at around 7:40 AM and is experiencing mild dehydration due to prolonged fasting. She said he is fully alert, his vital signs remain stable, blood tests have been conducted, and doctors are continuing to monitor his condition closely.

10:50 AM IST | CJP says 'Chalo Sansad' march will go ahead

The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) said the planned 'Chalo Sansad' march to Parliament on 20 July would proceed despite Sonam Wangchuk's hospitalisation. Party leaders said the protest would continue even after Wangchuk was shifted to Safdarjung Hospital.

10:46 AM IST | Timeline of Wangchuk's hunger strike

As Sonam Wangchuk was shifted to hospital, attention has returned to his nearly three-week protest at Jantar Mantar. He began his indefinite hunger strike on 28 June demanding accountability over alleged examination irregularities, including the NEET paper leak, and the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. The Delhi High Court later directed daily medical monitoring after concerns over his deteriorating health.

10:36 AM IST | Safdarjung Hospital says Wangchuk admitted at 7:40 AM

Safdarjung Hospital said Sonam Wangchuk was admitted at 7:40 AM for medical care after concerns over his health during his prolonged hunger strike. The hospital said he was weak due to prolonged fasting and dehydration but was currently stable. It added that he would remain under continuous observation, monitoring and treatment to restore his body parameters.

10:26 AM IST | Arvind Kejriwal urges Centre to hold talks

AAP national convener Arvind Kejriwal criticised the Centre over Wangchuk's removal from Jantar Mantar and said the government should have engaged in dialogue instead of using force. He also called for reforms to India's education and examination system.

9:52 AM IST | Abhijeet Dipke begins indefinite hunger strike

Cockroach Janta Party founder Abhijeet Dipke announced that he had begun an indefinite hunger strike in solidarity with Sonam Wangchuk after the activist was shifted to Safdarjung Hospital. Dipke said the protest would continue despite Wangchuk's hospitalisation.

ALSO READ: Can Sonam Wangchuk Be Force-Fed? What Indian Law Actually Says

9:42 AM IST | Dipke alleges Wangchuk was removed against his will

Speaking to ANI, Cockroach Janta Party founder Abhijeet Dipke alleged that Sonam Wangchuk was forcibly removed from the protest site by police on Saturday morning. Delhi Police have denied using excessive force and said the transfer was carried out in accordance with the Delhi High Court's directions and medical advice.

9:37 AM IST | Safdarjung Hospital says Wangchuk is stable

Safdarjung Hospital said Sonam Wangchuk had been admitted for medical care after prolonged fasting and dehydration. The hospital said he was currently stable but required continuous observation, monitoring and treatment to restore his health.

9:33 AM IST | Sachin Pilot says Centre should have held talks

Congress leader Sachin Pilot criticised the government's handling of Sonam Wangchuk's protest, saying authorities should have engaged in dialogue instead of removing him from the protest site. He argued that shifting Wangchuk to hospital without addressing the protesters' demands would only increase public anger.

9:15 AM IST | Cockroach Janta Party escalates demand to PM Modi's resignation

The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) said it would now seek Prime Minister Narendra Modi's resignation following the removal of Sonam Wangchuk from the protest site. CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke alleged that Wangchuk had been taken away against his will and said the planned march to Parliament on 20 July would go ahead.

"Until now, we were demanding Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation, but after this despicable act, we will now demand the resignation of Narendra Modi," Dipke said.

9:30 AM IST | Wangchuk shifted to Safdarjung Hospital

Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk was shifted from Jantar Mantar to VMMC & Safdarjung Hospital on Saturday morning after completing 20 days of his indefinite hunger strike. Delhi Police said the decision was taken in compliance with the Delhi High Court's directions and based on medical advice after concerns over his deteriorating health. According to hospital sources, Wangchuk is conscious, his vital parameters are stable and he has been admitted to the emergency ward under medical supervision.

9:20 AM IST | Delhi Police deny lathi charge

Delhi Police denied allegations of using excessive force while shifting Wangchuk to hospital. Deputy Commissioner of Police Sachin Sharma said no lathi charge was carried out and no protesters were detained. Police said the transfer followed the Delhi High Court's order directing daily medical monitoring and was carried out after medical experts advised immediate intervention.

9:10 AM IST | Supporters allege forcible removal

Supporters of Sonam Wangchuk alleged that police forcibly removed him from the protest site against his wishes. Cockroach Janta Party founder Abhijeet Dipke claimed Wangchuk was dragged away despite his weakened condition, while party spokesperson Saurav Das alleged that some protesters were detained and students were lathicharged. Delhi Police denied the allegations.

9:05 AM IST | Family urges doctors not to begin treatment without consent

Gitanjali J Angmo, a member of Wangchuk's family, said he had been admitted to Safdarjung Hospital and urged doctors not to administer any treatment without his consent. She said she would hold authorities accountable if anything happened to him.

9:00 AM IST | Opposition criticises police action

Opposition leaders criticised the police action after Wangchuk was shifted to hospital. AAP leaders Manish Sisodia, Sanjay Singh and Saurabh Bharadwaj alleged that the government was trying to suppress a peaceful protest, while Trinamool Congress MP Sagarika Ghose and Samajwadi Party MP Dimple Yadav also condemned the police action. The statements were made in posts on X following Wangchuk's hospitalisation.

17 July 2026

12:45 PM IST | Wangchuk vows to continue fast until July 20

Sonam Wangchuk said he would "stay alive till 20 July at any cost" as his hunger strike entered Day 20. Addressing supporters, he said he remained mentally strong despite his deteriorating health and urged people to join the planned Parliament march on 20 July.

16 July 2026

5:05 PM IST | Sonakshi Sinha urges accountability over students' future

Actor Sonakshi Sinha has extended her support to Sonam Wangchuk and the Cockroach Janta Party through a social media post. Sharing a video on Instagram, she urged the government to ensure accountability over alleged examination irregularities and questioned "when is it going to be enough?" while expressing concern over Wangchuk's deteriorating health.

4:50 PM IST | Dimple Yadav meets Sonam Wangchuk at Jantar Mantar

Samajwadi Party MP Dimple Yadav visited Jantar Mantar on Thursday to meet Sonam Wangchuk, joining several political leaders who have met the activist during his ongoing hunger strike.

3:45 PM IST | Omar Abdullah urges Centre to show 'humanity and compassion'

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah expressed concern over Sonam Wangchuk's deteriorating health and urged the Centre to appeal to him to end his hunger strike. He said politics should not come at the cost of "humanity and compassion" and noted that Wangchuk had lost around 9 kg during the fast.

3:32 PM IST | Supreme Court Bar Association chief appeals to Wangchuk to end fast

Supreme Court Bar Association President and Senior Advocate Dr Vikas Singh has urged Sonam Wangchuk to call off his hunger strike. In a letter, Singh said, "India does not need you to die for a broken system. We need you to be alive, working and leading us from the front," while asking him to preserve his strength for the longer fight ahead.

2:45 PM IST | Rakesh Tikait to meet Wangchuk at Jantar Mantar

Farmer leader Rakesh Tikait said he would visit Jantar Mantar later on Thursday to meet Sonam Wangchuk. He alleged that the government had not shown sufficient seriousness despite the activist being on an indefinite hunger strike for 19 days.

2:34 PM IST | Centre says government doctors will monitor Wangchuk daily

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta informed the Delhi High Court that Sonam Wangchuk's health would be monitored daily by government doctors and medical experts. He said any medical intervention required, based on doctors' assessment of Wangchuk's condition, would be provided promptly.

2:15 PM IST | Atul Kulkarni observes one-day fast in support of Wangchuk

Actor Atul Kulkarni has begun a one-day hunger strike in solidarity with Sonam Wangchuk. In a social media post, he said he wanted to understand the pain of Wangchuk and other protesters while urging the government to respond to their concerns.

1:35 PM IST | Doctors warn of possible organ complications

Doctors monitoring Sonam Wangchuk said he has lost more than 9 kg since beginning his hunger strike. His attending physician, Dr Satish Lamba, warned that if the fast continues, it could progress to a stage involving multiple-organ complications, although Wangchuk remains under close medical observation.

12:40 PM IST | Centre tells Delhi High Court Wangchuk is being monitored

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the Centre, told the Delhi High Court that Wangchuk's health is being regularly monitored by government doctors and medical experts. He also said appropriate medical intervention would be provided if doctors considered it necessary.

11:47 AM IST | Delhi High Court disposes of PIL

The Delhi High Court has disposed of the Public Interest Litigation seeking urgent medical intervention for Sonam Wangchuk after directing authorities to carry out daily medical monitoring and provide medical aid whenever required. The Bench observed that "life is precious" while issuing its directions.

11:40 AM IST | Doctors say Wangchuk has lost over 9 kg

Doctors monitoring Sonam Wangchuk said he has lost more than 9 kg since beginning his indefinite hunger strike. According to the latest medical bulletin, his blood sugar is 80 mg/dL, pulse rate is 72 beats per minute and hydration remains fair. Doctors, however, have warned that prolonged fasting could eventually affect his organs if it continues.

11:15 AM IST | Delhi High Court orders daily health monitoring

The Delhi High Court directed authorities to conduct daily clinical health checks on Sonam Wangchuk and provide medical intervention whenever necessary. Observing that "life of any citizen is precious", the Bench disposed of the PIL seeking urgent medical treatment after recording the Centre's assurance that Wangchuk's health would continue to be monitored.

10:45 AM IST | Delhi High Court hears PIL on Wangchuk's health

The Delhi High Court is hearing a PIL seeking immediate medical intervention for Sonam Wangchuk, who has been on an indefinite hunger strike since 28 June. The petition urges authorities to shift him to a government hospital and provide essential medical treatment, including nutritional support if required.

10:30 AM IST | Health concerns intensify as fast enters Day 19

Doctors monitoring Wangchuk have warned that prolonged fasting is entering a potentially dangerous stage. According to updates shared by organisers, he has lost nearly 9 kg since the protest began. Medical experts say extended fasting can increase the risk of organ damage if it continues without intervention.

10:15 AM IST | Wangchuk refuses to end his fast

Despite appeals from supporters and growing concern over his health, Wangchuk has reiterated that he will continue his hunger strike. He has questioned what would change if he ended the protest without any meaningful response from the authorities.

10:00 AM IST | Mass hunger strike planned in solidarity

Supporters have organised a one-day mass hunger strike at Jantar Mantar to express solidarity with Wangchuk. Several political leaders, activists and public figures are expected to visit the protest site during the day.

ALSO READ: Explained: Why The Jantar Mantar Protest Isn't Over And Why Sonam Wangchuk Is Still Fasting

Why is Sonam Wangchuk on hunger strike?

Sonam Wangchuk began his indefinite hunger strike on 28 June in support of demands linked to alleged irregularities in national competitive examinations, including the NEET paper leak. He has sought accountability, demanded the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and said the resignation would be only the starting point for wider reforms to India's examination system. In an interview with The Indian Express, Wangchuk said the issue should ultimately be debated in Parliament with educationists and young people involved in shaping reforms.

What did the Delhi High Court order?

On 19 July, the Delhi High Court declined to immediately permit Sonam Wangchuk's transfer from Safdarjung Hospital to a private hospital. The court observed that the government's decision to hospitalise him was not arbitrary, directed that medical reports continue to be shared with his family, and said treatment decisions should remain with the treating medical team. Earlier, the court had directed authorities to conduct daily clinical health checks and provide medical intervention whenever necessary.

What is happening at Jantar Mantar?

According to The Guardian, supporters from across India, including students, parents and academics, continue to gather at Jantar Mantar in support of Wangchuk. The newspaper reported that many volunteers and organisers have also fallen ill while sustaining the prolonged protest.

Timeline

• 28 June: Sonam Wangchuk begins an indefinite hunger strike at Jantar Mantar.

• 15 July: A PIL seeking medical intervention is filed before the Delhi High Court.

• 16 July: The hunger strike enters Day 19 as the Delhi High Court hears the matter and health concerns continue to mount.

• 17 July: Hunger strike enters Day 20. Wangchuk says he will "stay alive till 20 July at any cost" ahead of the planned Parliament march. The Delhi High Court also agrees to hear a fresh PIL on 20 July alleging intrusive surveillance of protesters at Jantar Mantar.

• 18 July: Sonam Wangchuk is shifted to Safdarjung Hospital after 20 days of fasting. Delhi Police say the move followed the Delhi High Court's directions and medical advice, while supporters allege he was removed against his will.

• 18 July: Wangchuk is shifted to Safdarjung Hospital. His wife says the hunger strike continues despite hospitalisation, and confirms the 20 July Parliament march will proceed. A woman is detained after allegedly throwing ink at CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke.

• Later in the day, doctors reported dehydration, low potassium levels and rising ketone levels while confirming that Wangchuk remained under continuous observation. His wife said the hunger strike would continue, sought his transfer to a hospital of the family's choice and confirmed the planned Parliament march on 20 July would go ahead. A woman was detained after allegedly throwing ink at CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke.

• 19 July: Sonam Wangchuk remains admitted to Safdarjung Hospital under continuous medical supervision. His wife approaches the Delhi High Court seeking permission to shift him to a private hospital. The court declines to grant immediate interim relief, says the government's decision to hospitalise him was not arbitrary, directs that medical reports continue to be shared with his family and leaves treatment decisions to the medical team. Later, the hospital says Wangchuk remains clinically stable with marginal improvement in some blood parameters, while Delhi Police reiterate that no permission has been granted for the proposed Parliament march on 20 July.

• 20 July: Thousands of protesters marched towards Parliament during the 'Chalo Sansad' protest as clashes broke out with police. A CJP delegation met Union Minister J. P. Nadda and submitted a memorandum. Later, the Delhi High Court adjourned the hearing on Sonam Wangchuk's hospital transfer plea until Tuesday and directed that no urgent medical intervention be carried out without the approval of the Director of AIIMS.

TL;DR | News At Glance

Why is Sonam Wangchuk on hunger strike?

He is protesting over alleged irregularities in national competitive examinations, including the NEET paper leak, and has demanded accountability from the government.

Where is Sonam Wangchuk protesting?

He has been holding his hunger strike at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi since 28 June.

What are Sonam Wangchuk's demands?

Wangchuk has demanded accountability over alleged irregularities in national competitive examinations, including the NEET paper leak. He has called for Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation but has said this would be only the first step towards broader reforms to India's examination system. According to The Indian Express, he wants the issue debated in Parliament with educationists and young people involved in designing reforms.

What day is Sonam Wangchuk's hunger strike on?

As of 20 July 2026, Sonam Wangchuk remains admitted to Safdarjung Hospital after his hunger strike entered Day 23.

What did the Delhi High Court order today?

On 20 July, the Delhi High Court adjourned the hearing on Sonam Wangchuk's plea until Tuesday. The court directed that both the treating doctor at Safdarjung Hospital and a doctor trusted by Wangchuk be present at the next hearing. It also observed that any urgent medical intervention should not be undertaken without the approval of the Director of AIIMS.

What is the Delhi High Court hearing about?

The Delhi High Court has already disposed of the PIL seeking urgent medical intervention after directing daily monitoring of Wangchuk's health. On 19 July, it also heard a fresh petition filed by Wangchuk's wife seeking his transfer to a private hospital and declined to grant immediate interim relief.

What is Sonam Wangchuk's latest health update?

According to Safdarjung Hospital, Sonam Wangchuk remains conscious, alert and clinically stable. Doctors said his vital parameters remain stable and some blood parameters have shown marginal improvement, although he continues to require round-the-clock monitoring because of the physiological stress caused by his prolonged hunger strike. A multidisciplinary team from Safdarjung Hospital and AIIMS continues to supervise his treatment.

Has Sonam Wangchuk agreed to end his fast?

Not yet. In a handwritten note from Safdarjung Hospital on 20 July, Sonam Wangchuk said he would end his hunger strike if the Centre accepted responsibility for failures in the education system or if CJP leaders were allowed to meet Members of Parliament and received an assurance that the issue would be taken up during the Monsoon Session.

Has the government responded?

The Centre told the Delhi High Court that government doctors are monitoring Wangchuk's health daily and that medical intervention will be provided whenever necessary. The court subsequently disposed of the PIL after directing authorities to continue daily monitoring.

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