Fact Check: Did Deepika Padukone Support Sonam Wangchuk’s Hunger Strike? Truth Behind Viral ‘Failed Leader’ Post

A digital claim circulating across social media platforms suggests that Bollywood actor Deepika Padukone shared an Instagram story explicitly supporting climate activist Sonam Wangchuk’s ongoing hunger strike. The viral posts feature a screenshot alleging that Padukone criticised the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and labelled the leadership as "failed" before swiftly deleting the post. However, a detailed digital investigation reveals that the viral image is fabricated, and the actor has made no such public statements regarding the protest. Omi Vaidya to Zeenat Aman: Bollywood Rallies Behind Sonam Wangchuk As His Hunger Strike Over NEET Scam Enters Day 17.

Deepika Padukone Shares Instagram Story in Support of Sonam Wangchuk?

The rumour gained momentum across platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and Reddit after users began sharing a purported screenshot of Padukone’s official Instagram account.  The viral image shows a re-shared post featuring activist Sonam Wangchuk alongside a caption that reads, "He is on a hunger strike, we are just scrolling."

Viral Screenshot Being Attributed to Deepika Padukone

Online speculation quickly intensified, with multiple accounts claiming that Padukone deleted the story shortly after publishing it due to external pressures or fear of political backlash. The narrative sparked widespread debate among internet users regarding Bollywood's stance on current socio-political demonstrations.

Here's the Truth

The reality behind the viral screenshot is that it is entirely fake. A verification of Padukone’s active social media profiles, archived digital footprints, and public statements confirms that no such story was ever posted by the actor or her team.

The circulating image shows clear signs of digital manipulation, a common tactic used to fabricate celebrity endorsements or political commentary. Neither Padukone nor her representatives have issued any statements concerning the ongoing protests in the capital. While several prominent cultural figures and actors have expressed views on the situation, Padukone is not among them.

Conclusion

The claims that Deepika Padukone posted and subsequently deleted an Instagram story calling out leadership or supporting the current demonstrations are false. The viral graphic is a manipulated image designed to create misleading narratives online.  Meanwhile, the situation surrounding Sonam Wangchuk’s hunger strike remains critical. The environmentalist has completed his 18th consecutive day of an indefinite fast at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi.

Organised alongside the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), the protest demands the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over alleged irregularities in the national NEET examinations.  Medical bulletins indicate that Wangchuk’s health is deteriorating significantly, having lost nearly 9 kilograms since the fast began. NEET Aspirant Dies by Suicide in Rajasthan, Cops Say Student Was Distressed Over Re-Exam Performance.

The urgent nature of his physical condition has prompted the Delhi High Court to step in, issuing notices to both the Central and Delhi governments to respond to a petition seeking immediate medical intervention to safeguard his life.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 16, 2026 10:52 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).