Indian Hunger-Striking Activist Taken to Hospital by Police after Health Worsens

By Correspondent

NEW DELHI, July 18 — Indian police on Saturday forcibly moved prominent civil society activist Sonam Wangchuk to a hospital after his health deteriorated during a 21-day hunger strike demanding the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over a series of exam paper leaks, authorities said.

Police said Wangchuk, 59, was suffering from severe dehydration and faced the risk of hypokalemia, a potentially life-threatening drop in potassium levels. They said he had refused medical treatment but was transferred to a hospital under a court order after doctors warned his condition had become critical.

Wangchuk began his hunger strike on June 28 at New Delhi’s Jantar Mantar protest site, calling for Pradhan’s dismissal after examination paper leaks triggered public anger and protests across India. He has said he would continue his fast until the minister resigns or his demands are met.

Supporters accused police of removing Wangchuk against his wishes and dispersing protesters gathered at the site. Following his hospitalization, activists vowed to continue the campaign, with allies announcing fresh protests and a march to parliament during the monsoon session beginning July 20.

The protest has emerged as one of the most prominent civil society challenges to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government in recent months, drawing support from students and activists demanding greater accountability over examination scandals.
Reuters