Sonam Wangchuk Shifted to Hospital, CJP Founder Abhijeet Dipke Begins Hunger Strike; Alleges Police Detention

Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk shifted to Safdarjung Hospital on Saturday on 21st day of his indefinite hunger strike at Delhi's Jantar Mantar, triggering tension at the protest site. Soon after his removal, Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) founder Abhijeet Dipke announced that he would continue the protest by starting his own indefinite hunger strike.

The protest, which began on June 20, is demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, a judicial probe into alleged irregularities in competitive examinations, including NEET, and reforms in India's examination system.

Why Was Sonam Wangchuk Taken to Hospital?

Delhi Police said Wangchuk was shifted to the hospital following the Delhi High Court's directions and on the advice of doctors after his health deteriorated.

"As per the High Court's order and expert medical advice, Sonam Wangchuk has been shifted to the hospital for essential medical care," Delhi Police said in a statement.

Police also said some protesters tried to stop the process, causing a brief commotion, but officers carried out the operation with restraint.

'This Is a Self-Chosen Situation'

While being taken to the hospital, Wangchuk told officials that his hunger strike was voluntary.

"This is a self-chosen situation, not a disease or disorder. Please don't get into political things. I understand there must be pressure on you," he said. Safdarjung Hospital later confirmed that Wangchuk is under the care of doctors.

Dipke Announces Fresh Hunger Strike

Soon after Wangchuk was shifted, Abhijeet Dipke announced that he would continue the agitation. "I am starting an indefinite hunger strike beginning right now," Dipke said. He also alleged that Delhi Police used force during the operation.

In a post on X, Dipke claimed: "I have been beaten up and put under detention by Delhi Police." He further alleged that police "forcefully" removed Wangchuk from the protest site. Delhi Police has not responded to these specific allegations.

Protesters Claim Police Action

Several protesters claimed that electricity at the protest site was cut after Wangchuk was taken to the hospital. Some students also alleged that police used force while clearing Jantar Mantar. These claims have not been independently verified. Dipke also alleged that he and some other organisers were prevented from participating in the protest while Wangchuk was being shifted.

Protest to Continue

Despite Wangchuk's hospitalisation, protest organisers say the movement will continue. The Cockroach Janata Party has been protesting at Jantar Mantar since June 20, demanding action over alleged examination irregularities and reforms in the country's entrance examination system.

With Wangchuk now in hospital, Dipke's indefinite hunger strike is expected to keep the protest alive as demonstrators continue pressing for their demands.