As education reformer and climate activist Sonam Wangchuk continues his indefinite hunger strike at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar, concerns over his rapidly deteriorating health are growing across the country. On the 18th day of his fast, Bollywood personality Rakhi Sawant made an emotional appeal, urging Wangchuk not to put his life at risk and promising to personally travel to Delhi to help him end the protest. Known for her outspoken personality, Rakhi shared a heartfelt video message expressing her admiration for Wangchuk and calling him a national asset whose life should not be endangered.
“Please, Sonam-ji, I request you. I want to come to Delhi, to Jantar Mantar. Please do not give your life for these people. You are very precious,” Rakhi said in the video. She added that she would personally help Wangchuk break his fast with her own hands if given the opportunity.
Staying true to her lively style, Rakhi also injected humor into the emotional appeal. She joked that she would bring a variety of fruit juices, including lemon, mango and mosambi (sweet lime), to help Wangchuk regain his strength. She even quipped that India could not afford to lose someone of his brilliance, saying, “If he is not there, how will I go to NASA in the future? How will I board a rocket? We need such great scientists and engineers.” While Rakhi’s comments drew attention online, the issue at the center of Wangchuk’s protest remains deeply serious.
The 59-year-old activist began his indefinite hunger strike on June 28, 2026, demanding accountability over the NEET paper leak controversy. His protest calls for greater transparency in the examination system, the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, and financial compensation for families of students who allegedly died by suicide following the exam irregularities.
Wangchuk joined the demonstration being organized by the youth-led Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) at Jantar Mantar, where protesters have been demanding education reforms and justice for affected students.
According to reports, Wangchuk’s health has reached a critical stage after more than two weeks without food. He has reportedly lost between 8.5 and 8.9 kilograms, suffered significant muscle loss and continues to experience severe physical weakness. His condition has sparked widespread concern among supporters, politicians, and members of the entertainment industry.
Several prominent personalities have already appealed to Wangchuk to reconsider his decision. Veteran actor Shabana Azmi urged him to prioritize his health, while actress Swara Bhasker visited the protest site to express solidarity. Actor Omi Vaidya, best known for playing Chatur in 3 Idiots, also appealed for Wangchuk’s safety, recalling the inspiration his life provided for the iconic film.
Political leaders, including Shashi Tharoor, Arvind Kejriwal, and Mamata Banerjee, have also called on Wangchuk to end his fast while assuring him that the issue would continue to be raised through democratic and parliamentary channels.
Meanwhile, the matter has reached the Delhi High Court, where a petition has sought urgent medical intervention, including force-feeding if necessary, to prevent a life-threatening situation.
Despite mounting public appeals and growing concern over his health, Sonam Wangchuk has maintained that he will continue his hunger strike until the Central Government initiates an official dialogue with the protesting students regarding their demands. As the nation watches closely, Rakhi Sawant’s emotional appeal has added another voice to the growing chorus urging the activist to protect his health while continuing the fight for education reforms.
