Sonam Wangchuk Statement: Warns of Hunger Strike

Sonam Wangchuk Statement: Warns of Hunger Strike

New Delhi, October 11, 2026: Climate activist and education reformer Sonam Wangchuk has warned that he may consider a hunger strike or a foot march if protesters detained during a Delhi demonstration are not released. He described the situation as resembling an “undeclared Emergency” and called for peaceful protest, unity and dialogue.

Wangchuk's remarks followed police action on October 10, when demonstrators seeking the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar attempted to stage a protest in Delhi. Questions surrounding changes to electoral rolls and the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process were among the issues raised by the protesters.

What Did Sonam Wangchuk Say?

In a message posted on social media platform X, Wangchuk expressed concern after learning that several leaders and protesters had been detained.

He said he hoped those in custody would be released soon and warned that he would be compelled to consider an Anshan (hunger strike) or a Padyatra (foot march) if they were not released by the following day.

His message highlighted concerns about the handling of peaceful demonstrations and the importance of resolving disagreements through dialogue.

Wangchuk's remarks were a response to the reported detentions, rather than a confirmation that he had already begun another hunger strike.

Why Were Protesters Detained in Delhi?

On October 10, members of the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) and other demonstrators sought to protest in Delhi, demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar.

The protest was linked to allegations and concerns about electoral-roll revisions and the functioning of the Election Commission. These remain matters of political debate, and allegations raised by protesters should not be treated as established findings without supporting evidence.

Several political leaders, activists and demonstrators were detained during the police action, prompting criticism from Wangchuk and other voices.

Why Was Wangchuk Absent From the Protest?

Before the demonstration, Wangchuk explained that he would remain in Ladakh because of ongoing environmental and water-security work.

He said his team was preparing for the approaching winter and working on artificial glaciers, which can help improve water availability in high-altitude regions. He also highlighted research and preparedness related to glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs), which can pose serious risks to Himalayan communities.

Wangchuk had urged different groups to remain united and appealed to young people to maintain peace throughout the protest.

Appeal for Peace and Gandhian Values

Wangchuk's messages stressed the importance of non-violence and responsible leadership. He referred to Mahatma Gandhi's principles while encouraging young demonstrators not to abandon peaceful methods.

His comments have brought renewed attention to the debate over public demonstrations, police action and the right to express dissent.

What Happens Next?

Wangchuk's warning raises the possibility of further peaceful action, but it does not mean that a new hunger strike or march has definitely been scheduled.

The situation also developed on October 11. Reuters reported that CJP leader Abhijeet Dipke and two other senior leaders had been released from detention, according to Dipke's lawyer. The release is an important development, although it does not by itself establish the status of every person detained during the protest.

Conclusion: Sonam Wangchuk's statement has intensified attention on the Delhi detentions and the wider debate over peaceful protest. His next move will depend on developments following the police action and the status of those who remained in custody.