'I Am Strong': Sonam Wangchuk Breaks Silence

Climate activist and education reformer Sonam Wangchuk has broken his silence after concerns grew over his health during an 18-day hunger strike at Delhi's Jantar Mantar. Despite repeated appeals from political leaders, public figures and supporters, Wangchuk has insisted that he remains strong and has questioned why the government has not initiated talks with him. As his protest enters a critical stage, the Delhi High Court has also stepped in, agreeing to hear a petition seeking urgent intervention regarding his health and ongoing fast.

Sonam Wangchuk Says He Remains Strong

Speaking briefly during his protest, Sonam Wangchuk dismissed concerns that he was unable to continue his fast. He said he still feels strong despite spending nearly three weeks on a hunger strike.

His statement came after growing public concern over reports that his health had deteriorated due to the prolonged fast. Supporters gathered at Jantar Mantar have continued to monitor his condition while urging authorities to engage in dialogue.

Why Is Sonam Wangchuk on Hunger Strike?

Wangchuk began his indefinite fast at Delhi's Jantar Mantar to press for the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and to highlight issues that he believes require immediate attention.

According to Wangchuk, the protest is aimed at demanding accountability and encouraging meaningful discussions with the government rather than creating political confrontation. He has repeatedly stated that dialogue remains his preferred solution.

Shashi Tharoor Makes Emotional Appeal

Congress MP Shashi Tharoor has publicly appealed to Sonam Wangchuk to end his hunger strike, saying that his message has already reached millions across the country.

In an open letter, Tharoor praised Wangchuk for drawing national attention to his concerns and said that India still needs his voice in the future. He urged the activist not to risk his health further and also appealed to the Central Government to begin discussions with Wangchuk and the protesting students.

Wangchuk Responds to Appeals

Although several politicians, social activists and celebrities have requested him to end his fast, Wangchuk has maintained that the focus should remain on the government's response.

Instead of asking him to stop fasting, he has urged people to question why discussions have not yet begun between the authorities and the protesters. According to Wangchuk, meaningful dialogue remains the most effective path toward resolving the situation.

Delhi High Court Takes Up the Matter

The Delhi High Court has agreed to hear a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) seeking urgent intervention over Wangchuk's health and ongoing hunger strike.

During the hearing, the court acknowledged the urgency of the matter and directed both the Central Government and the Delhi Government to respond. The bench also observed that the case required immediate attention and scheduled further proceedings without delay.

Health Concerns Continue to Grow

As Wangchuk's fast extends beyond two weeks, concerns about his physical condition continue to increase.

Medical experts generally caution that prolonged fasting can significantly affect the body's energy levels, hydration and overall health. Although Wangchuk has projected confidence in his own condition, supporters continue to monitor his wellbeing closely while hoping for an early resolution.

Political Response Remains Limited

So far, there has been no major public statement from either the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) or the Congress leadership regarding the core demands raised during the protest.

However, individual leaders such as Shashi Tharoor have spoken publicly, urging both sides to resolve the issue through peaceful discussions rather than allowing the situation to escalate further.

Support Continues at Jantar Mantar

Wangchuk's protest has attracted support from students, environmental activists and members of civil society who have gathered at Jantar Mantar over the past several days.

Many supporters believe that open dialogue between the government and the protestors could help resolve the issue while avoiding further health risks to Wangchuk.

What Happens Next?

Attention is now focused on two parallel developments. The first is the Delhi High Court proceedings, where the governments are expected to present their responses. The second is whether the Centre decides to initiate direct discussions with Wangchuk in the coming days.

The outcome of both developments could determine the future of the ongoing hunger strike.

Conclusion

Sonam Wangchuk has made it clear that he does not intend to end his hunger strike simply because of growing concern over his health. While political leaders like Shashi Tharoor have urged him to stop fasting, Wangchuk continues to insist that the real solution lies in constructive dialogue with the government. As legal proceedings begin and public attention remains focused on the protest, the coming days are likely to play a crucial role in determining how the situation unfolds.