Sonam Wangchuk Hunger Strike: Cockroach Party Hero Weakens on Day 2026

Claire Hodges
Sonam Wangchuk Hunger Strike: Cockroach Party Hero Weakens on Day
This page may contain affiliate links.

Sonam Wangchuk, the activist and engineer leading India's Cockroach Janta party (CJP), has weakened significantly on the 19th day of his hunger strike, prompting a court order for health monitoring. The protest, demanding education reform, has drawn thousands of supporters to Delhi.

Who Is Sonam Wangchuk and Why Is He on Hunger Strike?

Sonam Wangchuk, known for his climate activism in Ladakh, is now the face of the Cockroach Janta party, a movement born after India's chief justice called unemployed youth "cockroaches." The party demands the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and a overhaul of the education system after a leaked medical exam paper led to suicides among students.


25% Off All iHerb Brands

Find Bleeding Edge Supplements at Scandalous Prices on iHerb.


Day 19: A Critical Turning Point

On day 19, Wangchuk has lost nearly 9kg and can barely speak. Doctors warn of severe starvation, muscle breakdown, and electrolyte imbalance. An Indian court has ordered authorities to monitor his health, as supporters camp at Jantar Mantar in Delhi.

ADVERTISEMENT

Health Risks of Prolonged Hunger Strikes

Prolonged fasting without food leads to ketosis, where the body burns fat and muscle for energy. After 18 days, organ failure and cognitive decline become serious risks. Wangchuk's physiotherapist massages his aching joints, but his condition remains fragile.

Comparison: Hunger Strike Duration and Outcomes

Activist Duration (Days) Outcome
Sonam Wangchuk 19 (ongoing) Court-ordered health monitoring
Mahatma Gandhi 21 Negotiated settlement
Irom Sharmila 16 years (intermittent) Ended after legal changes

Key Takeaways from the Cockroach Janta Party Movement

  • Demand: Resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and reform of exam systems.
  • Trigger: Leaked medical exam paper in May 2024 led to student suicides.
  • Symbolism: The "cockroach" tag was embraced by founder Abhijeet Dipke as a badge of resilience.
  • Support: Thousands of students and senior citizens have joined the protest at Jantar Mantar.

FAQ: Sonam Wangchuk and the Hunger Strike

What is the Cockroach Janta party?

The Cockroach Janta party (CJP) is a protest movement founded by Abhijeet Dipke in May 2024. It demands education reform and the resignation of India's education minister after a leaked exam caused student suicides.

Why is Sonam Wangchuk on a hunger strike?

Wangchuk is on a hunger strike to pressure the government to reform the education system and hold the education minister accountable for exam leaks that devastated millions of students.

What are the health risks of a 19-day hunger strike?

After 19 days without food, the body enters severe starvation, breaking down fat and muscle. Risks include extreme weakness, impaired brain function, electrolyte imbalance, and potential organ failure.

ADVERTISEMENT

How can I support the Cockroach Janta party?

Supporters can join the protest at Jantar Mantar in Delhi, spread awareness on social media, or donate to legal and medical funds for the activists.

ADVERTISEMENT
Claire Hodges

Author

Claire Hodges

Claire Hodge is a seasoned writer and the head of content for the "Celebrities & Culture" magazine at Grand Goldman. With a background in journalism and a passion for Pop Culture / Fashion, she brings a unique blend of expertise and creativity. Her insightful articles and in-depth interviews have made her a bold voice in the industry, known for her ability to capture the idiosyncrasies of celebrity lives and cultural trends.


SPONSORED

Get Lifetime Access to the Lastest Movies, with Exclusive Offers & Free Express Order Delivery.

The best paddle surf board isn't at Decathlon: it's this one with thousands of accessories and outlet pricing - Grand Goldman

The best paddle surf board isn't at Decathlon: it's this one with thousands of accessories and outlet pricing - Grand Goldman

Even if you keep up a great workout routine all year round, when vacation time comes, we usually tend to slack off and put training aside. A good w...

Read
This is the best time to get cheap, good running shoes: here's why - Grand Goldman

This is the best time to get cheap, good running shoes: here's why - Grand Goldman

Running is an accessible sport and we only need a little time and a good pair of running shoes to get going, which we can find right now at a good ...

Read
Sports sunglasses: which is the best to buy? Tips and recommendations - Grand Goldman

Sports sunglasses: which is the best to buy? Tips and recommendations - Grand Goldman

The sun gives us energy that is vital for our system, but it can also harm us, which is why protection is vital. As Paracelsus said: the dose makes...

Read
The best folding stationary bikes: which one to buy? Tips and recommendations - Grand Goldman

The best folding stationary bikes: which one to buy? Tips and recommendations - Grand Goldman

When looking for a way to stay in shape from the comfort of our own home, few options are better than getting an exercise bike or a recumbent bike ...

Read
Pull-up bar: which one is best to buy? Tips and recommendations - Grand Goldman

Pull-up bar: which one is best to buy? Tips and recommendations - Grand Goldman

Pull-ups are undoubtedly one of the best exercises you can do to train your back and core muscles. Choosing a pull-up bar is not simple, as there a...

Read
Sports headphones: which is the best to buy? Tips and recommendations - Grand Goldman

Sports headphones: which is the best to buy? Tips and recommendations - Grand Goldman

There are times when exercising can get a bit boring and tedious; not every day we are and we need an external stimulus to encourage us to train. ...

Read
Sports Sunglasses: Which Is Best to Buy? Tips and Recommendations - Grand Goldman

Sports Sunglasses: Which Is Best to Buy? Tips and Recommendations - Grand Goldman

The sun provides us with energy that is vital for our system, but at the same time, it can be harmful. As Paracelsus said: the dose makes the poiso...

Read
These are the best thermal bottles to stay hydrated during this heat wave while we train in summer - Grand Goldman

These are the best thermal bottles to stay hydrated during this heat wave while we train in summer - Grand Goldman

We are experiencing one of the toughest weeks of summer, with places in the country reaching nearly 45º, making going outside dangerous, and even m...

Read
Adidas Salomon Reebok: the best deals on running and training shoes on Amazon Prime Day - Grand Goldman

Adidas Salomon Reebok: the best deals on running and training shoes on Amazon Prime Day - Grand Goldman

Finally, the Prime Day 2023 has begun, where we can find great deals on the Amazon website between July 11 and 12. We are sure that sports enthusia...

Read
Adidas, Puma, Reebok: the best deals on running and training shoes on Amazon Prime Day - Grand Goldman

Adidas, Puma, Reebok: the best deals on running and training shoes on Amazon Prime Day - Grand Goldman

Finally, Prime Day 2023 has begun, where we can find great deals on the Amazon website between July 11 and 12. Sports enthusiasts are sure to want ...

Read

ADVERTISEMENT




SPONSORED