CJP protest: Sonam Wangchuk offers to end hunger strike if centre spares students from legal action; agitation intensifies - Top developments

Sonam Wangchuk on Wednesday has appealed to the Union government to provide assurances against legal action or harassment of young protesters, stating he is ready to break his 25-day indefinite hunger strike immediately if such guarantees are given.

In a formal letter dated July 22 addressed to Union Ministers JP Nadda and Jitendra Singh, Wangchuk expressed gratitude for their hospital visit and appeal to end his fast. He highlighted that approximately 65 Members of Parliament from various parties have urged him to conclude the protest so he can resume his work in education and environmental causes.

Meanwhile, fresh tensions escalated in Delhi amidst protests led by the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP). While the protest at Jantar Mantar remained peaceful, tension mounted on Sansad Marg, where clashes broke out between protesters and security personnel.

In addition security personnel fired tear gas shells at protesters on Sansad Marg, the protesters pelted stones at the police and chased them onto the main radial road of Connaught Place. According to the Delhi Police, five police personnel, two ACPs, an inspector, a head constable, and a constable were injured.

Wangchuk's key conditions for ending the fast

He emphasised the peaceful nature of the July 20 "Chalo Sansad" march despite reported police actions, and warned that without assurances, he would continue the fast indefinitely. "I want to return to my students, to education... But I cannot do so at the cost of the very young people for whom this movement began," the letter states.

Wangchuk joined the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) protests at Jantar Mantar on June 28, beginning an indefinite hunger strike in solidarity with students demanding accountability over alleged NEET-UG paper leaks and systemic issues in competitive examinations. The CJP movement, which began in June, calls for Pradhan's resignation and broader education reforms.

Here's the key developments so far

CJP protesters remain at Jantar Mantar in Delhi with tents and a makeshift stage, despite previous police action to remove structures. The sit-in is entering its next phase with continued demonstrations.

CJP national spokesperson Ashutosh Ranka warned that the July 20 Parliament march was “just a trailer.” He stated that “millions more” will come to Delhi if the government does not accept their demands.

Activist Sonam Wangchuk continues his hunger strike over the NEET issue. The Delhi High Court allowed his transfer from Safdarjung Hospital to Medanta Hospital in Gurugram for better medical care.

Union Minister JP Nadda met with a CJP delegation. Discussions were described as cordial, with protesters submitting a written petition. A follow-up meeting was expected.

Leaders including Arvind Kejriwal, Uddhav Thackeray, Sanjay Singh, and Sanjay Raut addressed a joint press conference in support of the protesters. Rahul Gandhi and other opposition figures have also escalated their criticism of the government.

Heavy police deployment continues in central Delhi. Multiple FIRs have been registered related to the July 20 clashes. Delhi Police have reported injuries to their personnel.

The Delhi High Court sought a response from Delhi Police over allegations of excessive force during the Parliament march.

CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke and leaders have reiterated that the protest will not end without concrete assurances and resolution of student demands. They have also opposed any FIRs against protesters.

The movement has become highly politicized, with opposition parties actively supporting the cause while the government urges constructive dialogue in Parliament and appeals for unity on legislative business. With agency inputs