Social activist and education reform campaigner Sonam Wangchuk has made a strong statement amid his ongoing hunger strike at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi. Addressing supporters during the protest, Wangchuk announced that he intended to continue his indefinite fast until 20 July so that he could personally lead the proposed "Parliament Chalo" march on the opening day of the Monsoon Session of Parliament.
Speaking to supporters in an emotional but light-hearted manner, Wangchuk remarked that if the march failed to achieve its purpose, he would "return as a ghost." The comment quickly went viral on social media and became one of the most discussed moments of the ongoing protest. The remark was widely interpreted as a symbolic expression of his determination rather than a literal statement.
Wangchuk has been leading the protest over demands related to education reforms, examination transparency and repeated paper leak incidents. Protest organisers have also called for the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, alleging failures in addressing irregularities within the examination system.
According to organisers, the planned Parliament Chalo March on 20 July is intended to draw national attention to these demands and urge the government to initiate comprehensive reforms in India's education system. Supporters from different states have been asked to participate peacefully in the march.
However, Wangchuk's health deteriorated significantly after 21 days of continuous hunger strike. Medical teams monitoring his condition reportedly advised that immediate hospital care was necessary due to concerns over his physical condition.
On 18 July, Delhi Police intervened and shifted Wangchuk from the protest site to a hospital for medical treatment. Videos circulating on social media showed police personnel surrounding him with a cloth sheet while escorting him into an ambulance. The visuals generated widespread discussion online and prompted mixed reactions from political leaders, activists and members of the public.
Delhi Police stated that the decision to move Wangchuk to the hospital was taken solely on medical grounds after doctors expressed concern about his deteriorating health. Officials said the priority was to ensure that he received appropriate medical attention and that the action was not intended to prevent peaceful democratic expression.
Following the incident, several opposition leaders and social activists criticised the manner in which Wangchuk was removed from the protest site, while others argued that protecting his health was necessary after such a prolonged fast. The incident has intensified the political debate surrounding the ongoing protest.
Despite being hospitalised, organisers of the movement have indicated that preparations for the 20 July Parliament Chalo March are continuing. They maintain that the campaign's demands remain unchanged and have appealed to supporters to participate peacefully while respecting the law.
The protest has gained significant national attention over the past three weeks, with several political leaders visiting Jantar Mantar to express solidarity with Wangchuk. The movement has focused primarily on examination reforms, accountability in the education system and stronger measures to prevent future paper leak incidents.
As of now, Wangchuk remains under medical supervision. It is not yet clear whether his health condition will allow him to personally participate in the proposed march on 20 July. Authorities have not announced any restrictions on the planned demonstration, while organisers say they will continue to pursue their demands through peaceful and constitutional means.