Environmentalist and education reformer Sonam Wangchuk has laid down three key conditions for ending his indefinite hunger strike, as the ongoing Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) protest gathered momentum at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar on Monday. The protest, which has drawn students, activists and citizens from across the country, seeks greater accountability, transparency and meaningful engagement from the Centre on issues affecting Ladakh and democratic governance.
Addressing supporters from the protest site, Wangchuk said his fast is not aimed at confrontation but at encouraging constructive dialogue. He stressed that he would end his hunger strike only if the government demonstrates a genuine willingness to engage with the concerns raised by the movement.
The first condition, Wangchuk said, is a formal assurance from the government that it is is ready to hold meaningful talks with representatives of the protest. The second is a commitment that discussions will take place within a fixed timeframe rather than being delayed indefinitely. His third condition calls for the talks to result in a transparent roadmap on the issues raised by the movement, ensuring that discussions lead to concrete action instead of remaining symbolic.
The protest took a dramatic turn on Monday as thousands of CJP supporters attempted to march towards Parliament on the opening day of the Monsoon Session. Protesters moving from the Sansad Marg side were stopped by security personnel outside the Sansad Marg Police Station, while another group was halted near Raisina Road, barely 200 metres from Parliament. As the crowd tried to move forward, security forces used batons to disperse protesters, leaving a few injured. Those hurt were administered first aid at the protest site. Authorities also fired tear gas shells to prevent demonstrators from breaching the barricades, leading to tense scenes in the high-security zone around Parliament.
Despite the confrontation, Wangchuk reiterated that the movement would remain peaceful and urged supporters not to resort to violence or provocation. He said the protest was centred on constitutional rights, environmental protection and the future of Ladakh, adding that non-violence remains its greatest strength.
The CJP protest has witnessed growing participation over the past few days, with people from different walks of life gathering at Jantar Mantar to express solidarity. Protesters have been carrying placards, raising slogans and participating in discussions highlighting issues related to governance, environmental conservation and citizens’ rights.
The movement also saw a significant development after fellow protester Abhijeet Dipke agreed to call off his own hunger strike following Wangchuk’s appeal. Dipke had been fasting alongside the movement but decided to end his protest after Wangchuk urged him to prioritise his health and continue supporting the campaign in other ways. His decision was welcomed by fellow protesters, who described it as a responsible step that reflected the movement’s commitment to peaceful activism.
Speaking to supporters, Wangchuk expressed gratitude to those who had joined the campaign from different parts of the country. He said the overwhelming public response had strengthened the movement and demonstrated that people were willing to stand up for democratic values through peaceful means.
The protest has also attracted widespread attention on social media, where videos and photographs of the march and the police action were shared extensively. Several civil society groups, students and environmental activists voiced support for Wangchuk, describing his hunger strike as a call for greater accountability and public participation in policymaking.
Security remains tight in and around Parliament, Jantar Mantar and adjoining areas as authorities continue to monitor the situation. Political observers believe the coming days could prove crucial as attention shifts to the Centre’s response. Whether formal talks are initiated may determine the future course of the protest.
The Sonam Wangchuk hunger strike has once again brought national attention to issues concerning Ladakh, environmental conservation and participatory governance. As public support continues to grow, many are closely watching to see whether the government responds with a formal invitation for dialogue.
For now, Wangchuk remains firm on his three conditions, insisting that meaningful talks, a clear timeline and a credible commitment to action are essential before he considers ending his fast. Until then, the peaceful protest is expected to continue, with supporters hoping negotiations will pave the way for a constructive resolution.
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