Activist forcibly hospitalized in India after 20-day hunger strike

In India, renowned social activist and education expert Sonam Wangchuk, who had been on a hunger strike for 20 days, was forcibly removed from the protest site by police. This incident has further intensified debates surrounding the country's education system.

59-year-old Wangchuk, who is demanding reforms in the education sector, Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) had launched the hunger strike to support the movement. Over 20 days, consuming only salt and water, he lost more than 9 kilograms.

On Saturday morning, police and paramilitary forces entered the protest site and removed him from the stage. Law enforcement officers took him by ambulance to the Safdarjang hospital in Delhi.

Wangchuk's wife, Gitanjali Angmo, demanded that no medical treatment be administered without the consent of his family and doctors.

According to the hospital, the activist is weak due to the prolonged hunger strike and is suffering from mild dehydration. However, his vital signs are stable and he remains under constant observation.

Police stated that Wangchuk was transferred to the hospital in accordance with a Delhi High Court order, medical advice, and consideration for his health.

Despite calls to end his hunger strike, the activist had announced his intention to participate in a peaceful march to parliament scheduled for July 20.

In Wangchuk's place, CJP founder Abhijit Dipke has begun an indefinite hunger strike. He stated that the plan for the march to parliament will not be canceled.

Cockroach Janta Party was formed in May as an online initiative against the leaking of test questions in major Indian exams and other irregularities. Protesters have been demanding the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.

Following Saturday's events, the movement expanded its demands to include the resignation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Wangchuk's forced removal was sharply criticized by opposition politicians, who labeled it an "anti-democratic act." Former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal also called on the government to listen to the protesters' demands.