As the hunger strike of climate activist Sonam Wangchuk entered its 20th day on Friday, with his health deteriorating further, prominent figures from across India’s film, literary and journalistic fraternities issued a heartfelt appeal urging him to end his fast.
In a joint letter, the signatories described Wangchuk as their “collective conscience” and a steadfast protector of both the environment and India’s youth, while calling for urgent steps to safeguard his health and life through meaningful dialogue with the authorities.
The appeal comes amid growing concern over Wangchuk’s physical condition as he continues his indefinite hunger strike in support of the Cockroach Janata Party’s (CJP) protest against alleged examination paper leaks.
Doctors monitoring his health have reportedly warned that the prolonged fast has reached a critical stage and that continued abstinence from food could soon result in irreversible organ damage.
Signed by more than 60 eminent personalities, the letter underscores Wangchuk’s moral stature and enduring influence. “You are too precious to lose in this tragic way,” the signatories wrote, adding that his “sacrifice and courage have inspired people around the world.” They also appealed to the government to engage with him constructively and “honour the spirit of public service” that he represents.
Among those endorsing the appeal are acclaimed filmmakers Zoya Akhtar, Mira Nair, Deepa Mehta, Kiran Rao and Payal Kapadia; celebrated authors Arundhati Roy, Amitav Ghosh and Pankaj Mishra; and actors Nandita Das and Konkona Sen Sharma, alongside academics, journalists and human rights advocates.
Addressing supporters at Jantar Mantar on Friday, Wangchuk acknowledged his declining health but maintained that his resolve remained unwavering. “I am weak from the outside but very strong inside,” he said, urging supporters to participate in large numbers in the CJP’s proposed peaceful march to Parliament on July 20. “We will go together and present our plea in the temple of democracy,” he added.
The protest at Jantar Mantar, which entered its 28th day, is set to culminate in the march coinciding with the opening of Parliament’s Monsoon Session.
Expressions of solidarity have continued to pour in from across public life. Veteran actor Zeenat Aman, actor Omi Vaidya and Sonakshi Sinha have previously appealed for dialogue, while Opposition leaders including former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, Samajwadi Party MP Dimple Yadav, Shiv Sena (UBT) representatives and farmer leader Rakesh Tikait have also extended their support to Wangchuk’s campaign.