The Ladakhi engineer, educator, and environmental activist who was the inspiration behind the character of Phunsukh Wangdu from the Bollywood film “3 Idiots,” Sonam Wangchuk, is once again back into the limelight. He is presently conducting an indefinite hunger strike at the Jantar Mantar in New Delhi, in support of a campaign protesting against the lack of accountability regarding India’s educational and examination systems.
This is a noteworthy event since Wangchuk does not fit into the category of a typical politician. Instead, for many years now, he has been recognized as an innovator associated with education, sustainability and the Himalayan ecology.
Who is Sonam Wangchuk?
Sonam Wangchuk is a native of Ladakh who is an engineer, inventor, and social activist. He received his education in mechanical engineering from National Institute of Technology, Srinagar. Later, he pursued earthen architecture in France. Sonam Wangchuk assisted in forming SECMOL or Students’ Educational and Cultural Movement of Ladakh in 1988. It is an organization which promotes quality education among the youth residing in the Himalayan region.
Wangchuk gained international recognition for several innovations, including:
Educational reform in Ladakh – challenging traditional rote-learning methods and creating more practical approaches to schooling.
Ice Stupas – artificial glaciers designed to store winter water and support agriculture in water-scarce Himalayan villages.
Sustainable architecture – promoting climate-friendly construction suited to mountain environments.
His work made him a respected voice on climate change, indigenous rights and sustainable development.
Why is Sonam Wangchuk on hunger strike?
The reason behind the ongoing hunger strike of Wangchuk is related to a protest over claims of examination irregularities in India’s educational system. Wangchuk was part of the larger movement initiated by the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) at the Jantar Mantar, Delhi.
The protesters are demanding justice over claims concerning examination irregularities, such as the NEET-UG 2026 paper leak case. They have also called for accountability from the Union Education Ministry and resignation of the Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.
The protesters argue that examination irregularities affect millions of young Indians because competitive exams determine access to medical colleges, universities and government opportunities. They say failures in exam security damage students’ trust in the system.
Wangchuk claims that he is on hunger strike because he feels that citizens have the responsibility of raising their voice in case institutions fail to protect youth’s future.
Sonam Wangchuk’s health condition during hunger strike
Sonam Wangchuk, 59, has been on hunger strike for 18 days. During the fast, his health has reportedly deteriorated, with doctors stating that he has lost around 8.5 kg of weight and suffered muscle loss, weakness and low blood sugar levels. His medical condition has become a major concern as prolonged fasting can affect vital body functions.
Doctors monitoring him have warned that continuing the fast for an extended period could lead to serious health complications. They have advised regular medical observation and expressed concern over his declining physical condition, especially because of the strain caused by prolonged fasting.
Despite his worsening health, Wangchuk has continued his protest. Supporters and several public figures have urged him to consider ending the fast due to the risks, while he has maintained that he will continue until his demands are addressed.
Bollywood personalities extend support to Sonam Wangchuk
Several Bollywood actors and film personalities have spoken out in support of Sonam Wangchuk amid concerns over his health during his hunger strike. Actors including Shabana Azmi, Zeenat Aman, Prakash Raj, Omi Vaidya and Abhay Deol have expressed solidarity with him and urged attention towards his cause and health.
Several Bollywood actors and film personalities have spoken out in support of Sonam Wangchuk amid concerns over his health during his hunger strike. Actors including Shabana Azmi, Naseeruddin Shah, Ratna Pathak Shah, Zeenat Aman, Prakash Raj, Omi Vaidya and Abhay Deol have expressed solidarity with him and urged attention towards his cause and health.
Other celebrities, including Soni Razdan, Swara Bhasker and others, have also shared messages supporting Wangchuk and appealing for a peaceful resolution. Their statements have brought greater attention to the protest and highlighted concerns over his deteriorating health.
This is a developing story.
