New Delhi: What began as a peaceful hunger strike has now snowballed into a major political flashpoint. Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk was shifted to Delhi’s Safdarjung Hospital on Saturday after his health deteriorated during his indefinite fast, triggering a fresh controversy as his supporters alleged he was taken there against his wishes. Within hours, dramatic scenes unfolded at Jantar Mantar when Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) founder Abhijeet Dipke was allegedly attacked with ink by a woman during the ongoing protest, adding another twist to an already tense day.
Delhi Police said Wangchuk was admitted to Safdarjung Hospital after doctors advised immediate medical intervention following a decline in his health on the 21st day of his hunger strike. The move also came in line with directions from the Delhi High Court, which had asked authorities to closely monitor his condition and ensure timely medical care.
However, Wangchuk’s supporters have strongly objected to the manner in which he was shifted. CJP leaders alleged that he was taken to the hospital without his consent and claimed family members were initially not allowed to carry their mobile phones inside. They also alleged they were not immediately given copies of his medical reports, raising questions over transparency in the treatment process. Officials have not publicly responded to these allegations.
The protest site at Jantar Mantar witnessed more chaos later in the day when Abhijeet Dipke, who has now taken over the indefinite hunger strike, was allegedly targeted by a woman. According to eyewitnesses and videos circulating on social media, the woman threw blue ink at Dipke and attempted to confront him during the protest before being stopped by those present.
Soon after the incident, Dipke addressed supporters, insisting the attack would not weaken the movement. He also accused the authorities of trying to suppress a peaceful protest and maintained that the agitation would continue despite Wangchuk’s hospitalisation.
The day’s developments also reignited the political battle over the protest. Aam Aadmi Party national convenor Arvind Kejriwal slammed the BJP led Centre over the handling of Wangchuk’s agitation and reiterated his support for the activist. Kejriwal has been demanding accountability from the Union government over the issues raised by Wangchuk and earlier called for Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan’s resignation while backing the protest. He has also requested the citizens to gather at jantar mantar for protest to support NEET protest.
Wangchuk’s hunger strike, which began on June 28, has drawn support from students, activists and several opposition leaders. His campaign seeks action over alleged examination irregularities and broader reforms in the education system. With Wangchuk now under medical supervision, CJP has announced that the protest will continue under Dipke’s leadership.
As the agitation enters a crucial phase, the focus has expanded beyond Wangchuk’s health to questions surrounding police action, the treatment of protesters and the political fallout. With allegations continuing to fly from both sides, the protest has rapidly evolved into one of the country’s most closely watched political developments.
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