Social activist Sonam Wangchuk has entered the 18th day of his hunger strike at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi, continuing his demand for the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over alleged irregularities in national examinations.

According to supporters, Wangchuk's health remains stable but has shown signs of decline as the fast continues. Through his supporters, he appealed for dialogue, asking why the government was unwilling to engage in discussions despite repeated requests.

The protest is being organised with the support of the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), a satirical citizens' platform that has raised concerns over alleged examination-related issues and governance.

Once Cordial Ties Have Turned Into Open Confrontation

The ongoing protest marks a sharp contrast to the relationship Wangchuk once shared with the central government.

In March 2023, Wangchuk and his wife Gitanjali Angmo met Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan in New Delhi to discuss innovative education initiatives linked to the Himalayan Institute of Alternatives, Ladakh (HIAL).

Following the meeting, both sides publicly praised the discussions, describing them as constructive and focused on educational reforms.

However, relations gradually deteriorated in the following years amid disagreements over Ladakh's political demands and the recognition of HIAL.

Ladakh Movement Became Turning Point

The relationship worsened as Wangchuk became one of the prominent voices demanding greater constitutional safeguards for Ladakh, including statehood, Sixth Schedule protection, increased parliamentary representation and a dedicated Public Service Commission.

After protests intensified in 2025, Wangchuk was detained under the National Security Act (NSA) following unrest in Leh.

He spent nearly six months in judicial custody before being released in March 2026.

Since his release, Wangchuk has continued advocating peaceful dialogue while urging the Centre to address the concerns of Ladakh's residents.

Government and Protesters Exchange Sharp Criticism

The current protest has further escalated tensions between Wangchuk and the government.

While protesters continue demanding accountability over alleged examination irregularities, senior leaders from the ruling party have criticised the movement.

Despite the political exchanges, Wangchuk has maintained that his support for the protest is based on non-political public interest and has repeatedly called for constructive dialogue instead of confrontation.

Read more: Cockroach Janta Party Protest at Jantar Mantar Draws Attention in Delhi

Centre Announces Progress on Ladakh Safeguards

Even as Wangchuk continues his protest, the Centre has announced progress on constitutional safeguards for Ladakh.

Government officials recently stated that the Union Territory could receive a customised framework under Article 371, along with additional autonomous hill councils for newly created districts.

The proposal is intended to strengthen local governance while addressing some long-standing demands raised by Ladakh's civil society groups.

However, Wangchuk has not publicly commented on the latest proposal.

Protest Expected to Continue

Supporters have indicated that Wangchuk intends to continue his hunger strike until meaningful dialogue takes place.

The protest has drawn support from several public figures, political leaders and civil society organisations, while a march from Jantar Mantar to Parliament has been announced during the upcoming Monsoon Session.

Authorities continue to monitor the situation as concerns grow over Wangchuk's health and the possibility of further demonstrations.