Why Did Abhijit Dipke Begin an Indefinite Hunger Strike?
Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) founder Abhijit Dipke on Saturday announced that he had begun an indefinite hunger strike, shortly after activist Sonam Wangchuk was shifted from the protest site at Jantar Mantar to Safdarjung Hospital in Delhi following a deterioration in his health.
Announcing his decision in a post on X, Dipke said, “I am starting an indefinite hunger strike beginning right now.”
The development came as Wangchuk, who had been observing an indefinite hunger strike at Jantar Mantar, was moved to the government hospital by the Delhi Police on the 21st day of his protest.
Police officials said the decision to hospitalise Wangchuk was taken on medical advice and in accordance with directions issued by the Delhi High Court.
Why Was Sonam Wangchuk Shifted to Hospital?
According to the Delhi Police, Wangchuk’s health deteriorated after 21 days of his indefinite hunger strike, prompting authorities to shift him to Safdarjung Hospital for medical attention.
Deputy Commissioner of Police (New Delhi) Sachin Sharma told PTI that Wangchuk was hospitalised in accordance with the Delhi High Court’s directions after his health condition worsened.
He said the activist was receiving the required medical intervention under medical supervision.
In a separate statement, the Delhi Police said Wangchuk was shifted from the protest site for “essential medical care” following expert medical advice and in compliance with the court’s orders.
The development marked a significant moment in the ongoing protest at Jantar Mantar, where Wangchuk had continued his hunger strike for three weeks.
What Happened During Wangchuk’s Hospitalisation?
According to the police, some protesters attempted to obstruct officials while Wangchuk was being shifted from Jantar Mantar to the hospital.
The situation reportedly led to a brief commotion at the protest site.
Delhi Police said its personnel exercised maximum restraint while carrying out the operation and successfully shifted Wangchuk for medical treatment.
Authorities maintained that the action was necessary because of concerns over his health and was carried out following medical recommendations and judicial directions.
What Did Abhijit Dipke Announce?
Soon after Wangchuk was moved to Safdarjung Hospital, CJP founder Abhijit Dipke announced that he would begin his own indefinite hunger strike.
Dipke made the announcement publicly through social media, stating that his fast would begin immediately.
His decision adds another dimension to the developments surrounding the Jantar Mantar protest following Wangchuk’s hospitalisation.
Further details regarding Dipke’s hunger strike, including its location and specific demands, were not immediately available in the information provided.
What Happens Next?
Attention will now remain on Sonam Wangchuk’s health as he continues to receive medical care at Safdarjung Hospital.
Authorities are also expected to monitor developments at the protest site following Dipke’s announcement of an indefinite hunger strike.
Wangchuk’s hospitalisation after 21 days of fasting and Dipke’s subsequent announcement could keep the protest in focus as further developments emerge.
