Cockroach Janta Party Protest Intensifies at Jantar Mantar as Sonam Wangchuk’s Hunger Strike Draws Nationwide Support
Political leaders, film personalities and social activists extend support to the growing movement demanding reforms in India's examination system.
The ongoing protest by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar against alleged irregularities in the national examination system has now evolved into a nationwide movement. Led by CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke, the peaceful agitation, along with noted education reform advocate Sonam Wangchuk’s indefinite hunger strike, has attracted widespread public attention and support from prominent personalities across the country.
According to reports, Sonam Wangchuk’s hunger strike has entered its seventeenth day, with his body weight reportedly declining by nearly 8.5 kilograms. Despite concerns over his deteriorating health, Wangchuk has refused to end his fast. Medical volunteers at the protest site are continuously monitoring his condition.
The movement received a significant boost after several prominent figures, including Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray, Aam Aadmi Party leader Atishi, Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav, and Bollywood actor Omi Vaidya, publicly expressed their support. Uddhav Thackeray stated that the concerns raised by students transcend political boundaries and are directly linked to the future of the country’s youth.
Atishi, accompanied by former Delhi Mayor Shelly Oberoi, visited Jantar Mantar and expressed solidarity with the protesters. Meanwhile, actor Omi Vaidya shared a video message saying that he could not remain silent while the “real-life Phunsukh Wangdu” was suffering and urged the public to listen to Wangchuk’s message.
Prominent author Arundhati Roy and veteran actors Naseeruddin Shah and Ratna Pathak Shah also issued a joint appeal expressing concern over Wangchuk’s health. While acknowledging the importance of the movement’s demands, they emphasized that the life and well-being of its leadership are equally important and appealed to him to reconsider continuing the fast.
The protest and the growing support from influential personalities have increased pressure on the Central Government. Thousands of students and their families across the country have voiced concerns over alleged irregularities in competitive examinations and are demanding greater transparency and accountability.
CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke reiterated that the movement would remain entirely peaceful and within constitutional limits. However, protest leaders have warned that if the government fails to initiate meaningful dialogue and address their concerns, a massive march towards Parliament will be organized on July 20, with participation expected from students and supporters from across India.
As the movement gains momentum, all eyes are now on the Central Government and the Ministry of Education to see how they respond to this growing public concern. Observers believe that constructive dialogue and timely action will be crucial in restoring confidence among students and ensuring faith in the country’s examination system.