Sonam Wangchuk to lead CJP march to Parliament on July 20 demanding Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation

The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) on Thursday announced that it will hold a peaceful march from Jantar Mantar to Parliament on July 20, the first day of the monsoon session. According to the CJP, the march will be led by activist Sonam Wangchuk, who is currently on hunger strike for education reform and in memory of the students who have lost their lives due to the repeated failures of India’s examination system.

CJP Parliament March 20th July

The CJP will also press its demand for the immediate resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.

On the 11th day of her indefinite hunger strike, Sonam Wangchuk also appealed to citizens across the country to join the peaceful march, saying that Parliament is the place where students’ voices must be heard and accountability must be demanded.

“If you really want me to stay alive, don’t just send messages from your homes. Come to Delhi and join me in a peaceful march to Parliament on July 20. Together we can make our voices heard where laws are made,” Wangchuk said.

Sonam Wangchuk’s health is deteriorating

Meanwhile, as the CJP’s protest in New Delhi entered its 20th day on Thursday, activists said Wangchuk’s condition had further deteriorated and doctors reported that he had lost more than seven kilograms since starting the indefinite fast 11 days ago.

All India Students Association (AISA) member Hrishikesh, who was also on an indefinite hunger strike at the protest site, was admitted to Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital after he developed serious health complications.

According to a health bulletin issued on Wednesday, Wangchuk’s weight was recorded at 59.40 kg, bringing his total weight loss since the start of the fast to more than seven kilograms.

His blood pressure was recorded as 103/68 mm Hg sitting and 111/73 mm Hg supine. His heart rate was 74 beats per minute, his blood glucose was 75 mg/dL, and his oxygen saturation was 98 percent.

The bulletin stated that his hydration is adequate and that he remains mentally alert.

AISA said four of its members, All India President Neha, Uttar Pradesh President Manish, Delhi University Vice President Deepak and Uttar Pradesh President Manish, along with Wangchuk, are continuing their indefinite hunger strike at Jantar Mantar.

The hunger strike is being held in support of the ongoing protest demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over alleged examination irregularities.

In a statement, AISA said the Center ignored the demands of the protesters despite the deteriorating health of those on hunger strike. The organization also reiterated its call for Pradhan’s resignation.