Abhijeet Dipke Announces Indefinite Hunger Strike After Sonam Wangchuk Shifted to Hospital (Videos)
Abhijeet Dipke, the founder of the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), announced an indefinite hunger strike on Saturday morning following the forced relocation of climate activist Sonam Wangchuk to Safdarjung Hospital. Dipke began his fast directly from the protest site at Jantar Mantar in Delhi.
Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) founder Abhijeet Dipke on Saturday announced an indefinite hunger strike after climate activist Sonam Wangchuk was shifted from Delhi's Jantar Mantar protest site to Safdarjung Hospital. Dipke alleged that Wangchuk was taken away against his wishes, while Delhi Police said the move was made following medical concerns and in compliance with a Delhi High Court order directing authorities to ensure his health was monitored.
Dipke Begins Fast in Protest
Soon after Wangchuk's hospitalisation, Dipke declared that he would begin an indefinite hunger strike in solidarity with the activist and continue the ongoing protest. He accused the authorities of suppressing a peaceful democratic movement and reiterated demands for accountability over the issues that prompted the agitation. The announcement came amid heightened tension at Jantar Mantar, where supporters gathered after Wangchuk was removed from the protest site. Sonam Wangchuk Removed From Jantar Mantar Hunger Strike Site, Shifted to Hospital (Videos).
CJP's Abhijeet Dipke Announces Indefinite Hunger Strike
Sonam Wangchuk Shifted Following Health Concerns
Wangchuk, who had been on an indefinite hunger strike for 21 days, was taken to Safdarjung Hospital early Saturday after his health reportedly deteriorated. Delhi Police said the transfer was carried out in accordance with directions from the Delhi High Court, which had ordered daily medical examinations and appropriate healthcare for the activist. Hospital officials said Wangchuk was conscious and his vital signs were stable, though he would remain under close medical observation.
Allegations Over Removal
Dipke claimed Wangchuk was forcibly removed from the protest site and alleged that he himself was detained by police before he could address supporters. Delhi Police, however, maintained that the action was taken solely to ensure Wangchuk received necessary medical care in light of his prolonged fast and the court's directions. The developments triggered protests at Jantar Mantar, with supporters questioning the manner in which the activist was shifted to the hospital. Sonam Wangchuk’s Wife Gitanjali Angmo Says No Treatment To Be Given to Him Without Family Consent.
Sonam Wangchuk's Wife Gitanjali J. Angmo Seeks Consent Before Medical Treatment
Meanwhile, Wangchuk's wife, Gitanjali J. Angmo, appealed to hospital authorities not to administer any oral or intravenous treatment without the consent of the family and the doctors who had been monitoring his health during the hunger strike. She said any medical intervention should be undertaken only after consultation with his family and long-term medical team.
Background of the Protest
Wangchuk's indefinite fast has drawn national attention over the past three weeks. His protest has focused on demands linked to alleged irregularities in the NEET examination and calls for accountability, with supporters planning a march to Parliament. The prolonged hunger strike has prompted growing concern over his health and increased scrutiny of the authorities' handling of the protest.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 18, 2026 10:39 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).