Delhi’s Jantar Mantar protest has entered a new phase after Abhijeet Dipke, founder of the Cockroach Janata Party, announced that he has begun an indefinite hunger strike. His decision came shortly after environmental activist Sonam Wangchuk was shifted to Safdarjung Hospital following a deterioration in his health during a twenty day fast. Dipke’s move has ensured that the ongoing agitation will continue despite Wangchuk’s hospitalisation.
Abhijeet Dipke Begins Indefinite Hunger Strike
Addressing the media at Jantar Mantar, Abhijeet Dipke declared that the protest would not stop under any circumstances. He strongly opposed the removal of Sonam Wangchuk from the demonstration site and said he was launching his own indefinite hunger strike from Saturday.
Dipke also confirmed that the march scheduled for July 20 would go ahead as planned. He alleged that efforts to weaken the movement had backfired and expressed confidence that the protest would attract even greater public participation. Calling on people to gather at Jantar Mantar, he said the campaign was expected to expand in the coming days.
#WATCH | Delhi: Founding President of the Cockroach Janta Party, Abhijeet Dipke, says, “I am commencing my indefinite hunger strike starting today. I appeal to everyone: do not back down; this movement will only grow larger. They have made a grave mistake… I urge everyone to… pic.twitter.com/iCoB6jSOHQ
— ANI (@ANI) July 18, 2026
Wangchuk Hospitalised as Security Tightened:
Sonam Wangchuk had been observing a hunger strike at Jantar Mantar for the past twenty days before doctors advised immediate medical intervention. Acting on the recommendation of medical experts, Delhi Police shifted him to Safdarjung Hospital on Saturday morning.
Hospital authorities said Wangchuk is conscious and his vital signs remain stable while he continues to receive treatment in the emergency department.
Delhi Police stated that the decision to move Wangchuk was based entirely on medical necessity and was taken in accordance with expert medical advice and directions issued by the Delhi High Court.
Following Wangchuk’s transfer to hospital, security at Jantar Mantar was increased with a heavy deployment of police personnel. Authorities also appealed to protesters to vacate the protest site peacefully. However, Dipke’s decision to begin an indefinite hunger strike has given the movement renewed momentum, placing fresh attention on the planned July 20 march and the future course of the protest.
