India moves fasting activist Sonam Wangchuk to hospital as health worsens

Authorities in India's capital, Delhi, have hospitalized social activist Sonam Wangchuk after his health deteriorated during a 21-day hunger strike. Wangchuk, 59, began his fast on June 28, demanding the resignation of the federal education minister over alleged exam paper leaks that affected millions of students. Police stated Wangchuk was moved to the hospital for "essential medical care" on court orders after his condition worsened on Saturday. Earlier, the Delhi High Court had instructed authorities to closely monitor his health and intervene if necessary, responding to a petition seeking to force-feed him. Wangchuk has been a central figure in protests organized by the India's youth Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), which is also demanding reforms in the examination system. The CJP plans to march to India's parliament on July 20, coinciding with the monsoon session's start, to press their demands. Last year, the government accused Wangchuk of inciting people with "provocative statements" during violent protests in Ladakh, his home region. He spent six months in jail before his release in March, denying the allegations and attributing the protests to public frustration with the federal government. Wangchuk had previously told Reuters his fast would continue for six weeks unless he died, expressing hope that a "sensitive government in a democracy listens to the pains of the people."

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But hopefully, we don't have to go that far. A sensitive government in a democracy listens to the pains of the people, and I hope they will take action.