Gandhi to Sonam Wangchuk, the enduring power of the ‘renouncer’ in Indian politics
Activist Sonam Wangchuk's hunger strike, initiated on June 28 to demand the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over the NEET exam leak, has garnered significant public support, culminating in a crowd of at least 50,000 at Jantar Mantar on July 20. The movement reflects a historical pattern in Indian politics where acts of perceived sacrifice by non-traditional political figures inspire public mobilization. Wangchuk's condition has led to his hospitalization, yet protests continue unabated at the site.