New Delhi: Social activist Sonam Wangchuk’s hunger strike at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar entered its 20th day on Friday, with actor Aamir Khan expressing concern over his deteriorating health and urging him to end the fast soon.
Speaking at the London Indian Film Festival, Aamir said he was worried about Wangchuk’s health and hoped he would call off his indefinite hunger strike. Responding to a question, the actor also clarified that the 2009 film 3 Idiots was not based on Wangchuk’s life, adding that he did not know him when the film was made.
Meanwhile, Wangchuk said he wanted to remain alive at least until July 20, when the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) plans to hold a march to Parliament. He appealed to supporters to join the protest in large numbers, saying they would take their demands to the “temple of democracy.”
Doctors treating Wangchuk have warned that the prolonged fast has significantly increased the risk of organ failure. On Thursday, the Delhi High Court directed the Centre and the Delhi government to ensure his daily medical examination.
Wangchuk has been participating in the protest against the alleged NEET paper leak and irregularities in competitive examinations. According to organisers, he has lost nearly 8.9 kg since beginning the hunger strike.
The Cockroach Janta Party has been protesting at Jantar Mantar since June 20, demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over the NEET controversy. The group was formed after Chief Justice Surya Kant’s remarks comparing unemployed youth to “cockroaches” sparked public criticism.
