The protest demanding accountability over the alleged NEET examination irregularities intensified on Saturday after Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) founder Abhijeet Dipke launched an indefinite hunger strike following the hospitalisation of climate activist Sonam Wangchuk.
Dipke announced his fast at Jantar Mantar hours after Wangchuk was shifted to Delhi's Safdarjung Hospital on the 21st day of his hunger strike. Wangchuk was moved to the hospital after his health deteriorated,in compliance with directions issued by the Delhi High Court and on the advice of medical experts.
Addressing supporters, Dipke alleged that Delhi Police had detained and assaulted him while removing Wangchuk from the protest site. Calling the police action an attempt to suppress a peaceful movement, he vowed to continue his indefinite hunger strike until the protesters' demands were met.
During the protest, Dipke broke down in tears while addressing supporters at Jantar Mantar. In an emotional outburst, he questioned Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saying, "Narendra Modi, tell me this, what is Dharmendra Pradhan to you?"
As Dipke continued speaking, a fellow protester, identified as Ranka, attempted to calm him down, saying, "Enough, brother. Don't speak so disrespectfully." However, Dipke responded angrily, "Why should I stop? This is how I'm going to speak from now on."
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According to Safdarjung Hospital, Wangchuk is weak due to prolonged fasting and dehydration but remains stable. Doctors said he requires continuous observation, monitoring and treatment to restore his health parameters.
Meanwhile, Wangchuk's wife, Gitanjali J. Angmo, appealed that no oral or intravenous treatment be administered to him without the consent of his family and his long-term doctors. She said the medical team that had been monitoring him over the past several weeks should be consulted before any intervention.
Delhi Police said Wangchuk was shifted to the hospital solely on medical advice and in accordance with the Delhi High Court's directions.Authorities also urged protesters at Jantar Mantar to vacate the site peacefully, saying police exercised restraint despite resistance during the operation.
Wangchuk launched his hunger strike demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over the alleged irregularities in the NEET examination. Before his hospitalisation, he had also called for a march from Jantar Mantar to Parliament House on the first day of the Monsoon Session, as protesters continue to press for action on their demands.
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