Activist Sonam Wangchuk was shifted to a hospital on July 18 after his health deteriorated during a prolonged hunger strike demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over the NEET paper leak. Police moved Wangchuk in compliance with Delhi High Court directions and medical advice, despite protests by activists at the site.
Wangchuk, who has been fasting since June 28 alongside other protesters including All India Students Association members, lost more than 9 kg during the strike led by the Cockroach Janta Party at Jantar Mantar. The Delhi High Court had ordered the government to monitor his health regularly on July 16.
Over 1,800 artistes, writers and academics have signed a statement urging Wangchuk to end his fast. Opposition parties including the Congress have expressed support, with Wangchuk appealing to Rahul Gandhi and Akhilesh Yadav to join the movement. Protesters plan to march to Parliament on July 20.