'I Am Beginning an Indefinite Hunger Strike': Abhijit Dipke Escalates Protest After Sonam Wangchuk's Hospitalisation
Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) founder Abhijit Dipke on Saturday announced the start of an indefinite hunger strike following the removal of activist Sonam Wangchuk from Delhi's Jantar Mantar protest site and his transfer to Safdarjung Hospital.
Dipke made the announcement through a post on X, saying, "I am starting an indefinite hunger strike beginning right now." His decision came just hours after Delhi Police shifted Wangchuk to the hospital, citing medical advice and directions issued by the Delhi High Court as concerns grew over the activist's health after 21 days of fasting.
The protest, which has drawn support from several student groups and activists, centres on allegations of irregularities in the NEET examination and the reported deaths of students linked to the controversy. Wangchuk had been observing an indefinite hunger strike since June 28 in support of the campaign.
Following Wangchuk's transfer, Dipke alleged that Delhi Police used force against protesters during an operation to clear the demonstration site. He claimed he was assaulted and briefly detained while police moved demonstrators away from Jantar Mantar. The allegations have added fresh political controversy to the ongoing agitation.
Delhi Police, however, maintained that Wangchuk was shifted solely for essential medical care after doctors expressed concern over his deteriorating health. Police also appealed to protesters to vacate the protest site peacefully and cooperate with authorities.
Despite Wangchuk's hospitalisation, the protest has continued. Student activists associated with the All India Students' Association (AISA), including Neha, Aameen and Manish, have continued their hunger strike, keeping the demonstration alive and demanding action over the alleged examination irregularities.
Dipke's decision to launch his own indefinite fast signals that the protest movement is likely to continue even as Wangchuk remains under medical observation, with demonstrators insisting that their demands will not be withdrawn until they receive a response from the authorities.
