Arvind Kejriwal Visits Jantar Mantar, Backs Sonam Wangchuk’s 19-Day Hunger Strike, Demands Education Minister’s Resignation and says Wangchuk should be the union education minister
New Delhi
Former Delhi Chief Minister and AAP National Convenor Arvind Kejriwal on Monday made a high-profile visit to Jantar Mantar to express solidarity with climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, who is on the 19th day of his indefinite hunger strike.
Kejriwal was accompanied by former Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia. As soon as the AAP delegation reached the protest venue, they were given a tumultuous welcome by organizers and supporters. Abhijit Dipke, founder of the protest platform and a former AAP activist, received Kejriwal at the site and briefed him about the condition of the fasting activists.
Addressing a large gathering of students, teachers, civil society members and supporters, Kejriwal launched a sharp attack on the Central Government. He categorically and emphatically demanded the immediate resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.
“India needs leaders like Sonam Wangchuk in policy-making,” Kejriwal said. “He is an IITian, a Ramon Magsaysay Award recipient, and one of the most respected climate change activists in the country. People like him should actually be the Education Minister of India. Dharmendra Pradhan should resign and Sonam Wangchuk should be made the Education Minister of the country.”
The former Delhi CM said Wangchuk’s 19-day fast was not just about one demand, but about the future of students, education, and climate justice. He added that ignoring the voice of scientists, educators and youth will cost the government dearly.
*Wave of VIP Support at Protest Site*
The protest at Jantar Mantar saw significant support from across the political and cultural spectrum on Monday. Samajwadi Party MP Dimple Yadav made a personal visit to the site. She met Sonam Wangchuk and other AISO activists who are also on indefinite hunger strike. Yadav enquired about their health and assured them of her party’s full support. She said the issues raised by the youth regarding education and environment cannot be ignored.
Several other political leaders were also present. Leaders from student organizations, academicians and social activists joined the protest through the day, turning the venue into a hub of solidarity.
The presence of actors and public figures further drew attention to the agitation. A number of actors, artists and influencers visited Jantar Mantar, interacted with the fasting students, and posted messages on social media urging the government to listen to Wangchuk’s demands. Their participation brought large crowds and amplified the protest’s reach.
Abhijit Dipke, while welcoming the dignitaries, said the movement has now become a national conversation. “When people from politics, cinema and education come together, it shows the seriousness of the issue,” he said.
*Health Concerns and Court Intervention*
The hunger strike has now entered its third week. Medical experts have warned that prolonged fasting can lead to severe complications including drop in immunity, electrolyte imbalance and organ stress.
Earlier in the day, the Delhi High Court, while hearing a petition on the matter, observed that the health of every citizen is important. The court directed that senior government doctors be deputed to regularly check the health of Sonam Wangchuk and other strikers at Jantar Mantar. The court said that if required, they should be immediately shifted to hospital for adequate treatment to save their lives.
Kejriwal, referring to the court’s remarks, said the government must act before the situation worsens. “We respect the right to protest, but we cannot risk lives. The Centre must hold dialogue and address the demands,” he said.
The protest continues with round-the-clock vigil by students and supporters. With high-profile visits and growing public attention, pressure is mounting on the government to respond to the demands raised by Wangchuk and the student groups at Jantar Mantar.
