Kejriwal backs Sonam Wangchuk for education minister, demands Dharmendra Pradhan's removal

Kejriwal made the remarks while visiting Wangchuk at Jantar Mantar in Delhi, where the activist is on an indefinite hunger strike over alleged irregularities in national examinations, particularly the NEET medical entrance test.

'Listen to students,' says Kejriwal

In a post on social media, Kejriwal said, "Sonam Wangchuk should be appointed as the country's Education Minister by removing Dharmendra Pradhan."

Addressing supporters at the protest site, he said repeated exam paper leaks were ruining the future of young people and urged the Centre to respond to students' concerns.

"Every year, exam papers get leaked and youth pay the price. I appeal to the government to listen to students and Wangchuk," he said.

Recalls Anna Hazare movement

Kejriwal also drew parallels with the 2011 anti-corruption movement led by Anna Hazare at Jantar Mantar, in which he had played a key role.

"While coming here today, I was reminded of April 4, 2011. Three years later, that government lost power because it failed to listen and allowed arrogance to overtake accountability," he said.

He praised Wangchuk for undertaking the hunger strike on behalf of students and lauded the young protesters demanding a fair and transparent examination system.

Wangchuk's health remains critical

Wangchuk began his fast on June 28 as part of a broader agitation led by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), which has been protesting at Jantar Mantar for over 25 days while demanding Pradhan's resignation.

The group has announced a "Chalo Sansad" march to Parliament on July 20, the opening day of the Monsoon Session.

On the 19th day of his fast, Wangchuk has reportedly lost more than nine kilograms. Doctors monitoring him said his condition remains critical despite stable vital signs.

Medical reports showed his blood sugar at 80 mg/dL, pulse at 72 beats per minute and blood pressure at 105/61 mmHg while lying down. Elevated uric acid levels have raised concerns about muscle breakdown.

Wangchuk refuses to end fast

In a video message released on Wednesday night, Wangchuk rejected appeals to end his hunger strike, saying medical assessments had not indicated any immediate danger.

He urged supporters to focus on mobilising for the July 20 protest march instead of asking him to break his fast.

SCBA and Delhi High Court intervene

The Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) on Thursday appealed to Wangchuk to end his fast, saying the country needed him "alive, active and engaged."

SCBA President Vikas Singh personally visited Jantar Mantar and handed over a letter urging the activist to safeguard his health.

Separately, the Delhi High Court directed authorities to conduct daily medical monitoring of Wangchuk and ensure timely treatment if required. The Centre and the Delhi government did not oppose the arrangement, with the court observing that "the life of any citizen is precious."