Sonam Wangchuk’s Jantar Mantar Hunger Strike Enters Day 20 as Protesters Demand Policy Reforms

As of June 30, 2024, Sonam Wangchuk, a prominent Indian education activist, remains on a hunger strike at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi, marking the 20th day of his protest, according to multiple reports. Wangchuk, who has been advocating for education policy reforms, has stated he will continue the fast “until July 20 at any cost,” as cited by The Hindu.

Sonam Wangchuk’s Hunger Strike Enters Day 20

“We will stay alive till July 20 at any cost,” Wangchuk said in a statement cited by India Today.

Support from Political Figures and Farmers

The protest has gained momentum with backing from influential figures. Rakesh Tikait, a leader of the Bhartiya Kisan Union (BKU), and Arvind Kejriwal, chief minister of Delhi, have publicly supported Wangchuk’s demands, as reported by The Times of India. “We are weak from outside, but strong inside,” Wangchuk said in a June 28 address, per NDTV.

Public and Media Response

Implications for Policy and Public Discourse