Former Delhi Chief Minister and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) national convenor Arvind Kejriwal visited Jantar Mantar in New Delhi on Thursday to meet social activist Sonam Wangchuk, who has been on an indefinite hunger strike in support of the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) movement. During the visit, Kejriwal expressed solidarity with Wangchuk, praised his determination and called for major changes in the country's education leadership, triggering a fresh political debate.
After meeting Wangchuk, Kejriwal shared photographs of the interaction on social media and described the activist's protest as a fight for the future of India's students. He said Wangchuk was willing to make the ultimate sacrifice for the country's children and paid tribute to his commitment and courage.
Speaking to reporters at the protest site, Kejriwal said Sonam Wangchuk is one of India's most respected educationists and argued that his contribution to education should be recognised at the national level. He urged the central government to remove Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and appoint Sonam Wangchuk as the country's next Education Minister. The statement quickly became one of the day's most discussed political developments.
Kejriwal also criticised the Union government over its response to the ongoing protest. Referring to the movement led by Wangchuk, he said the concerns of students and young people should not be ignored and urged the government to engage in meaningful dialogue instead of remaining silent. He further argued that accountability in the education system was essential to restore public confidence.
During his address, Kejriwal recalled the 2011 anti-corruption movement led by Anna Hazare and drew a comparison with the present protest. He said democratic governments should listen to peaceful public movements and warned that ignoring widespread public concerns could have political consequences.
Sonam Wangchuk has been observing an indefinite hunger strike at Jantar Mantar as part of the CJP campaign, which is raising demands related to alleged examination irregularities and broader education reforms. The protest has attracted support from several opposition leaders, students, activists and public figures over the past few weeks.
Medical concerns surrounding Wangchuk's fast have also intensified. The Delhi High Court has directed authorities to ensure regular health monitoring and provide medical assistance whenever necessary to safeguard his well-being during the hunger strike.
Kejriwal's visit comes after other opposition leaders also met Wangchuk at the protest site in recent days, reflecting growing political attention toward the movement. Supporters of the protest continue to demand reforms in the examination system and greater accountability from the authorities.
The former Delhi Chief Minister's demand to appoint Sonam Wangchuk as Education Minister has generated strong reactions across social media and political circles. Supporters described the statement as recognition of Wangchuk's work in education, while critics viewed it as a political remark directed at the central government. As of now, the proposal remains a political statement made by Kejriwal, and there has been no response from the Union government regarding the demand.