Educationist and environmentalist Sonam Wangchuk’s hunger strike at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar has entered its 18th day to protest the NET-UG exam question paper leak. The CJP has demanded compensation of Rs 1 crore to the families of candidates who committed suicide in frustration following the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and question paper leak.
Sonam Wangchuk’s physical condition is deteriorating due to hunger strike. According to the latest information from the doctors, she has lost around 4.8 kg since starting the fast. Her blood pressure has now dropped to 109/7.
Many prominent figures from the entertainment industry and civil society have expressed their support for Sonam Wangchuk’s movement in view of her rapidly deteriorating health. Actors Naseeruddin Shah, Ratna Pathak Shah, Abhay Deol, writer Arundhati Roy, economist Jayati Ghosh and filmmaker Sanjay Kake praised Sonam’s fight in a joint statement. However, they also asked Sonam to call off her fast in the interest of a longer fight in the future. “All salute his tenacity and courage for leading this movement for the students and youth of the country,” the statement said. But he needs everyone for the long fight ahead, so he is requested to call off his fast immediately. Actor Abhay Deol also posted a picture of Sonam on social media and stood by her side.