Delhi Protest 2026: Sonam Wangchuk, Police Action and 'Chalo Sansad'
Sonam Wangchuk was hospitalised during his hunger strike as thousands of protesters marched towards Parliament, leading to clashes with Delhi Police.
Activist Sonam Wangchuk had been on a 20-day hunger strike at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi, demanding action before Parliament's Monsoon Session.
Despite his worsening health, he refused to end his fast and announced a peaceful "Chalo Sansad" march on 20 July 2026.
However, on 18 July, Delhi Police surrounded the protest site, covered the area with large white sheets, and shifted Wangchuk to Safdarjung Hospital.
Authorities said the move was taken on the Delhi High Court's directions and medical advice as his health had become critical. Wangchuk later called his hospitalisation an "illegal detention."
Even after he was hospitalised, the Chalo Sansad march went ahead. Thousands of supporters gathered despite police denying permission and imposing heavy security measures across central Delhi. Mobile internet was suspended in some areas, five Metro stations were closed, and security forces used tear gas and lathi charges to disperse the crowd.
According to Delhi Police, 118 police personnel were injured, around 70 protesters were detained, and an FIR was registered over alleged stone-pelting and damage to police vehicles.
Meanwhile, a CJP delegation met BJP President JP Nadda, demanding Wangchuk's release, the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, and compensation for families affected by the alleged NEET UG paper leak tragedy. Nadda reportedly sought time to discuss the demands with the party leadership.
Adding to the controversy, viral videos from the protest showed some participants raising transgender rights slogans, sparking debate on social media over why such slogans appeared during a protest primarily focused on the NEET issue.
