Sonam Wangchuk, Ladakhi education reformer and activist, began an indefinite hunger strike on June 28, 2026 at Jantar Mantar, demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over repeated exam paper leaks (notably NEET-UG).
On July 18, 2026, Delhi Police carried out a carefully planned operation to remove him. Officers used a phone jammer, white curtain, and plainclothes personnel to discreetly take him away from the stage.
Authorities stated the move was based on medical advice and court directives, as Wangchuk’s health had deteriorated after more than 20 days of fasting. He was transferred to Safdarjung Hospital against his will, where he refused treatment.
Supporters and the satirical Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) described the removal as a “forceful abduction” meant to foil their planned march to Parliament, while police insisted it was a necessary medical intervention.
Reactions and Fallout
Arvind Kejriwal publicly backed Wangchuk, calling for Pradhan’s resignation and suggesting Wangchuk should be India’s Education Minister.
Student groups and opposition parties staged solidarity protests in Mumbai and other cities, condemning Wangchuk’s detention and accusing the government of suppressing democratic dissent.
The incident has intensified scrutiny of the government’s handling of exam-related controversies and raised questions about the balance between public health concerns and the right to protest.
