Sonam Wangchuk loses 2 kg, reports low BP on day 4 of hunger strike over NEET row

Concerns have started to emerge regarding the health condition of climate activist Sonam Wangchuk on the fourth day of his indefinite hunger strike in support of the Cockroach Janta Party’s (CJP) protest seeking the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over the NEET-UG paper leak and consequent alleged student suicides.

Wangchuk, in a video statement on X, said that he has lost about 2kgs and his blood pressure was also low. Despite claiming that he was “fine”, Wangchuk said that he was feeling “tired”, adding that he needed to have more water and salt to prevent dehydration.

“DAY 4 UPDATE: I’m feeling ok, bit tired though. Doctor said BP was low, I’ll increase water n salt intake. Sugar level is low at 66 but that’s because of no food for 3 days, as ketosis takes over body starts consuming fats etc. In prolonged fast it may consume muscles & organs resulting in death but I’m nowhere near that,” stated the activist.

Vows to continue hunger strike

However, Wangchuk vowed to carry on with the hunger strike, stating that his physical condition was a “little problem” compared to over 20 students who lost their lives.

“My inconveniences are nothing compared to the 20+ students who gave their lives & the 5 youths who died in Ladakh last September.Thanks for all your support. Jai Hind,” he added.

Call for solidarity

Dipke also took to social media, posting a video appeal urging students to gather at Jantar Mantar and “stand in solidarity” with Wangchuk. “A person is risking his life here to seek justice for the students. The least we can do is to come to Jantar Mantar and stand in solidarity,” Dipke said.

Also Read: NEET protest: Funding row overshadows CJP's demands as Wangchuk begins fast

Reiterating the demand for “justice for students who have died by suicide,” Dipke once again called for the resignation of Pradhan. He said Wangchuk remained “determined” to continue the hunger strike despite his deteriorating condition, adding that the activist had asked him not to worry about his health.

'Don't worry about me'

“…He is getting worse every hour. But still, he is determined to stay here. told him that I am concerned about his health. He told me that he will not leave this place. He said, don't be concerned about my health. Just keep on the battle going on,” the CJP founder stated.

Also Read: ‘Diaper drive’ marks 4th day of CJP sit-in, Dipke hits back at Pradhan’s ‘terrorist’ remark

Dipke further said that Wangchuk “believes” in the people of the country and was confident that the movement would continue to gather support. “…We are not going to stop until Mr. Dharmendra Pradhan resigns. That's what he said to me. And he said that to me because he believes in you,” Dipke added.