Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk’s health has deteriorated further as his indefinite hunger strike at Jantar Mantar entered its 19th day on Thursday, with his medical team warning that continuing the fast could lead to severe complications affecting multiple organs.
Wangchuk began his hunger strike on June 28 after joining an ongoing protest organised by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP). The agitation seeks the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over alleged irregularities in national-level examinations, including the NEET paper leak controversy.
During a medical briefing on Thursday, Wangchuk’s attending physician, Dr Satish Lamba, said the prolonged fast had significantly affected the activist’s health. He revealed that Wangchuk has lost more than 9 kilograms since the hunger strike began, with his current body weight dropping to 56.9 kg.
Sharing details of his medical condition, Dr Lamba said Wangchuk’s blood sugar level was recorded at 80 mg/dL and his pulse rate at 72 beats per minute. His blood pressure measured 105/61 mmHg while lying down and 101/65 mmHg while sitting.
The doctor said Wangchuk remains mentally alert and adequately hydrated, while his health is being monitored continuously by medical personnel. However, he cautioned that clinical findings indicate a worsening condition.
According to Dr Lamba, Wangchuk has entered the second stage of prolonged starvation, characterised by elevated uric acid levels caused by the breakdown of muscle tissue. He warned that if the hunger strike continues, the body could soon begin placing stress on vital organs as its energy reserves become depleted, increasing the likelihood of serious medical complications.
