Citizen Action Party-Sikkim calls for ''constructive dialogue'' as Wangchuk''s fast enters day 18

Gangtok, Jul 15 (PTI) The Citizen Action Party-Sikkim on Wednesday expressed deep concern over the health of activist Sonam Wangchuk, who has been on hunger strike in the national capital over the past 18 days, and called on the Centre to engage in a "constructive dialogue" with the protesters. Wangchuk was under round-the-clock medical supervision, with a medical bulletin issued by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) stating that the activist remains "very weak". His weight has fallen to 57.15 kg, a drop of 400 grams in the last 24 hours, taking his total weight loss since the beginning of the fast to 8.9 kg. His blood pressure was recorded at 105/76, blood sugar at 80 mg/dL, oxygen saturation at 97 per cent, while hydration was described as fair. In a statement, the Citizen Action Party-Sikkim said it was praying for Wangchuk's well-being and hoped the Centre would engage in a "constructive and meaningful dialogue" on the issues he has raised. "We offer our sincere prayers for his safety, good health, and well-being, and remain hopeful that the Union government, in keeping with the finest traditions of Indian democracy, will give due consideration to his concerns and initiate a constructive and meaningful dialogue at the earliest," it said. The statement described Wangchuk as one of India's foremost voices on sustainable development, climate resilience and community-led innovation. "The Citizen Action Party-Sikkim firmly believes that dialogue, mutual respect, and democratic engagement remain the strongest pillars of our republic. We are confident that through sincere and meaningful discussions, an amicable and honourable resolution can be achieved," it added. Wangchuk's indefinite fast against alleged irregularities in exams also received support from the Affected Citizens of Teesta (ACT), a Sikkim-based organisation advocating for environmental conservation and rights of indigenous people, which demanded the government respond to the climate activist's "legitimate demands". "We are witnessing a crisis of conscience. Wangchuk's health is failing as he sacrifices his own life for the future of our youth. The government has a moral and constitutional duty to heed the voice of the people. "The demand to remove the Union education minister is not a personal attack but a necessary step to restore integrity and accountability to our education system," it said. The organisation said it stands in solidarity with the ongoing protests at Delhi's Jantar Mantar and urged the Centre to ensure immediate medical care for Wangchuk and initiate a transparent process to address the concerns raised by the protesters. PTI COR NSD