Sonam Wangchuk’s Health Turns Critical as Indefinite Hunger Strike Enters Day 19

Social activist Sonam Wangchuk’s indefinite hunger strike entered its 19th day on Thursday, with doctors warning that his health has reached a critical stage. Medical experts said Wangchuk has lost more than 9 kilograms during the fast, raising concerns that prolonged starvation could soon begin affecting his vital organs. In a video message released on Wednesday night, Wangchuk rejected repeated appeals from political leaders and supporters to end his hunger strike. He said calling off the protest without any response from the government would send the wrong message. Instead, he urged people to strengthen the "Chalo Parliament" march scheduled for July 20, organised by the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP). Delhi High Court Orders Daily Medical Monitoring The Delhi High Court on Thursday directed the authorities to ensure Wangchuk's health is monitored on a daily basis and that immediate medical assistance is provided whenever required. The court observed that the life of every citizen is valuable. Both the Central Government and the Delhi Government informed the court that they had no objection to regular medical supervision. Meanwhile, the protest has continued to receive support from several public figures. Farmer leader Rakesh Tikait announced that he would visit Wangchuk at Jantar Mantar on Thursday evening. Former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal is also expected to visit the protest site. Musician Vishal Dadlani, actor Sayaji Shinde, and author Shobhaa De have expressed concern over Wangchuk’s deteriorating health and urged the government to engage in dialogue. Medical Bulletin Highlights Health Concerns According to a medical bulletin issued by Dr. Satish Lamba, Wangchuk has lost more than 9 kilograms since beginning the hunger strike. His blood sugar level was recorded at 80 mg/dL, while his pulse rate stood at 72 beats per minute. His blood pressure measured 105/61 mmHg while lying down and 101/65 mmHg while sitting. Doctors said he remains mentally alert despite his declining physical condition. Dr. Lamba explained that once the body's glucose reserves are exhausted, it starts consuming stored fat, followed by muscle tissue. He noted that Wangchuk's elevated uric acid levels indicate ongoing muscle loss. He warned that the next stage could involve damage to vital organs and called for immediate government intervention. Wangchuk Says His Determination Remains Strong In his video message, Wangchuk sought to reassure his supporters by stating that recent medical tests had not revealed any immediate life-threatening complications. He said that considering he has been fasting for 18 days, his reports remain within normal limits and his ECG is also normal. While acknowledging that his muscles are weakening, he maintained that both his heart and determination remain strong. He appealed to supporters not to focus on persuading him to end the fast but instead to participate in large numbers in the Parliament march on July 20. He also encouraged students to view the movement as a practical lesson in democracy and political science. Preparations Underway for July 20 Parliament March According to the CJP, nearly 150,000 people have confirmed their participation in the July 20 Parliament march through its website and missed-call campaign. Farmer leader Rakesh Tikait alleged that the government has not shown adequate seriousness regarding the health of the activist, who has been on a hunger strike for 19 days. Expressing solidarity from the United States, musician Vishal Dadlani said that although he could not be physically present, his support remains with Wangchuk and the students. He added that the movement is not aimed at changing the government but at protecting students' rights, urging the authorities to listen to their concerns. The CJP is demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over alleged irregularities in the NEET examination and has called for the Parliament march on July 20, the opening day of the Monsoon Session.