Sonam Wangchuk Calls For ‘Chalo Sansad’ March As Hunger Strike Enters Day 19

Environmentalist and social activist Sonam Wangchuk has announced a ‘Chalo Sansad’ march on July 20, urging students, teachers, youth and citizens across the country to join the protest over Ladakh-related demands.

In a video message released on Wednesday night, Wangchuk also appealed to schools, colleges and universities to observe July 20 as ‘Experiential Education Day’, saying it would give students an opportunity to understand the country’s democratic process.

Fast To Continue

Wangchuk’s hunger strike entered its 19th day on Thursday. Despite his weakening health, he said he has no plans to end the protest.

“My condition is not such that I will die in the next two-four days. Even after 18 days of fasting, my ECG report is good. My body has become weak, but my heart is functioning well, so I can continue the agitation for many more days,” he said.

He added that ending the fast now would send the wrong message that such movements could be ignored without any response from the government.

Health Under Watch

According to doctors, Wangchuk has lost around 8.9 kg since the hunger strike began and now weighs 57.15 kg. His blood pressure is 105/76, blood sugar 80 mg/dL, and oxygen saturation 97%. Doctors said he remains mentally alert despite physical weakness and is under continuous medical observation.

Opposition Leaders Back Protest

Several opposition leaders, including Bhim Army chief and MP Chandrashekhar Azad, along with MPs from the Samajwadi Party, Trinamool Congress, Congress and CPI, met Wangchuk at Jantar Mantar on Wednesday to express support.

Opposition leaders said Ladakh’s demands would be raised during the all-party meeting on July 19 and the upcoming Monsoon Session of Parliament. Protesters also claimed that more than 1.3 lakh people have joined the missed-call campaign launched in support of the July 20 march.