Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) national convenor and former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has demanded the immediate removal of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, suggesting that climate activist Sonam Wangchuk should take over the role.
Kejriwal made the statements during a visit to Jantar Mantar, where Wangchuk is leading a prolonged protest against alleged irregularities and paper leaks in national examinations, including the NEET medical entrance test.
Kejriwal Draws Parallels to 2011 Anti-Corruption Movement
Expressing solidarity with the protesting students and Wangchuk, Kejriwal warned the current administration against ignoring public grievances, drawing a direct comparison to his own political roots.
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A Reminder of 2011: Kejriwal recalled April 4, 2011, when he protested at the same site alongside Anna Hazare. He noted that the government of that time lost power three years later because “it failed to listen and allowed arrogance to overtake accountability.”
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Call for Accountability: “Every year, exam papers get leaked and youth pay the price,” Kejriwal stated, urging the central government to address the systemic flaws in the examination process.
Wangchuk’s Health Worsens as Fast Enters Day 19
Sonam Wangchuk has been on an indefinite hunger strike since June 28, partnering with the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), which has been demonstrating at Jantar Mantar for over 25 days.
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Critical Medical Status: Wangchuk has lost over nine kilograms. Medical personnel report his blood sugar at 80 mg/dL, pulse at 72 bpm, and blood pressure at 105/61 mmHg. Elevated uric acid levels indicate ongoing muscle breakdown.
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Defiant Stance: Despite his deteriorating condition, Wangchuk released a video message rejecting calls to end his fast, claiming he remains fit enough to continue. He urged supporters to focus their energy on a planned “Chalo Sansad” march to Parliament on July 20, coinciding with the start of the Monsoon Session.
Appeals from the Judiciary and Legal Fraternity
As health concerns mount, both the legal community and the courts have intervened:
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SCBA Appeal: The Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA), led by President Vikas Singh, formally requested Wangchuk to end his strike. In a letter delivered to the site, the association stated that India needs him “alive, active, and engaged” rather than dying for a broken system.
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High Court Directive: The Delhi High Court has ordered authorities to monitor Wangchuk’s health on a daily basis and provide necessary medical intervention, stating that the “life of any citizen is precious.” Both the Central and Delhi governments agreed to the directive without objection.
