New Delhi- On the 17th day of his hunger strike, Ladakh-based climate activist Sonam Wangchuk remained steadfast despite appeals from concerned supporters and politicians across the nation urging him to end his fast owing to visibly deteriorating health and significant weight loss.

Speaking to various media persons, Wangchuk expressed that the best way to resolve the situation is for the government to act on the demands rather than him unilaterally breaking the fast, pointing to the ongoing petition and the massive 'Sansad Chalo' march called for 20 July.

Sharing his thoughts with scribes, Wangchuk said that alternative and social media platforms will continue to grow and thrive, while mainstream media risks digging its own grave by failing to report on critical public issues.

“The media is not covering it. They are harming themselves. People’s trust in the media will be lost and soon mainstream media will end... Alternative media and social media will prosper further. They are committing suicide. They are digging their own graves.”

Wangchuk emphasised that news will reach the public regardless, but mainstream media’s credibility will suffer irreversible damage if it continues to sideline people’s movements.

On Ending the Hunger Strike

On being urged by prominent persons to break his fast citing health concerns and public appeals, Wangchuk clarified that the most effective way to end his protest lies with the government, not with him unilaterally giving up. He pointed to two concrete actions:

1. Signing the ongoing petition so that the voice reaches the government.

2. Joining the large march planned for 20 July in massive numbers.

He warned that prematurely ending the fast without any concrete gains would turn the struggle into a mere “historical failure” and weaken future movements.

“If I give it up, then what will be the benefit? No future struggle will succeed. This will remain a history of failure.”

Wangchuk's Core Demands

Wangchuk reiterated his two main demands:

Resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over repeated paper leaks, examination scams, and lack of accountability in the education system, essential for India’s goal of becoming a developed nation by 2047.

Implementation of the 6th Schedule for Ladakh to establish local democracy and protect the region’s climate and culture. He noted that while an understanding was reached, it has not yet been translated into ground-level action. He urged the government to take a decision during the ongoing Monsoon Session of Parliament.

Despite visible weakness and significant weight loss, Wangchuk firmly stated he will participate in the 20 July Parliament march with whatever strength remains.

He appealed to citizens to join in large numbers so that the collective voice reaches the government effectively. This statement comes amid the ongoing CJP-led protests at Jantar Mantar demanding systemic education reforms and accountability. Wangchuk’s hunger strike has drawn significant attention on social media, even as sections of mainstream media have been accused of under-reporting the movement.