CJP's Abhijeet Dipke Begins Indefinite Hunger Strike After Sonam Wangchuk Hospitalisation
Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) founder Abhijeet Dipke has begun an indefinite hunger strike after activist and engineer Sonam Wangchuk was moved from the protest site at Jantar Mantar to Safdarjung Hospital in New Delhi. Authorities said the decision was taken following medical advice and in accordance with directions related to Wangchuk's deteriorating health after more than 20 days of fasting.
Following Wangchuk's transfer, Dipke announced that he would continue the agitation by starting his own indefinite fast. In public statements and social media posts, he appealed to supporters not to withdraw from the movement and said that the planned protest activities, including the proposed march to Parliament, would continue as scheduled.
Delhi Police stated that Wangchuk's hospitalisation was carried out to ensure essential medical care after his condition worsened. Officials said the action was based on expert medical recommendations and court-related directions, while also urging protesters to vacate the demonstration site peacefully.
Several protesters and members of the CJP, however, criticised the police action, alleging that the removal from the protest site was unnecessary and amounted to a crackdown on a peaceful demonstration. Authorities have rejected allegations of wrongdoing and maintained that the priority was safeguarding Wangchuk's health.
The protest has drawn nationwide attention, with discussions continuing over its demands and the government's response. As of the latest available information, Wangchuk remains under medical observation and is reported to be in stable condition, though doctors have indicated that continuous monitoring is necessary due to the effects of prolonged fasting.
