Prominent environmentalist Sonam Wangchuk’s hunger strike for the rights of Ladakh’s people at Jantar Mantar in Delhi has reached its 19th day, with his health showing serious signs of strain. Having abstained from food for nearly three weeks, Wangchuk has lost 9 kilograms since the strike began, with his current weight down to 56.9 kg. His blood sugar level has fallen to 80 mg/dL, his pulse is recorded at 72 beats per minute, and his blood pressure stands at 105/61 mmHg while lying down and 101/65 mmHg while seated.
Despite the alarming vital signs, Wangchuk maintained that while his muscles have weakened considerably, his heart and internal system remain strong. He clarified that he is not in a life-threatening condition and urged supporters and the public not to be unduly concerned about his wellbeing. The situation, however, prompted swift judicial intervention, with a petition filed in the Delhi High Court seeking immediate provision of food and medical care to him. The court responded urgently, directing legal officers representing both the central and Delhi governments to appear before it on Thursday.
Political backing for the movement has been steadily growing across party lines. AAP leader Saurabh Bharadwaj is set to visit Wangchuk at Jantar Mantar in the evening, while former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal is also likely to call on him. Adding to the chorus of support, MNS chief Raj Thackeray took to social media to sharply criticize the government, questioning whether authorities were attempting to sacrifice an activist simply for raising the voice of the people.
When urged by well-wishers to end his fast given his deteriorating health, Wangchuk offered a firm response, stating that halting the strike now would let the government evade accountability altogether and send the wrong message that protesters can be waited out until they give up and leave. He remained resolute that his fight for Ladakh’s protection would not retreat despite his declining physical condition.
I’m Not in good shape but not so bad either…
Rather than asking me to break my fast please join me on 20th July… Peaceful March to the Parliament.#cockroachjanataparty #jantarmantar #cjpprotest #chalosansad pic.twitter.com/QZ6VyxVMAR— Sonam Wangchuk (@Wangchuk66) July 15, 2026
Instead of ending his protest, Wangchuk called on students and citizens across the country to join the “Chalo Sansad” foot march scheduled for July 20, organized for the cause of Ladakh’s people, urging large-scale participation to make the demonstration a success. His core demands remain bringing Ladakh under the Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution and granting it full statehood.