Actor Atul Kulkarni has announced that he will observe a one-day hunger strike on July 16 in support of educationist and climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, while urging the Centre to begin dialogue with the activist without further delay.

Kulkarni shared his decision through a video message, saying he would fast from his home to express solidarity with Wangchuk, whose indefinite hunger strike has entered its 19th day at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar.

Atul Kulkarni calls for immediate dialogue

In his message, the actor said his one-day fast is driven by two reasons. First, he wants to share the pain and struggle being experienced by Wangchuk and those protesting alongside him. Second, he hopes the government will respond by opening discussions instead of allowing the situation to escalate.

Kulkarni said he does not believe the government is insensitive and suggested that misunderstandings may have prevented meaningful communication between both sides. He appealed for talks to begin immediately, saying dialogue remains the best way to resolve differences.

Actor invites people to join the symbolic fast

Kulkarni also encouraged citizens who identify with Wangchuk’s concerns to participate in a one-day hunger strike from their homes.

He urged people to share his message on social media and join the peaceful gesture as a show of solidarity with the ongoing protest.

Ending his appeal with a thoughtful message, the actor said that people should connect with the suffering of others and support efforts aimed at finding a peaceful resolution.

Sonam Wangchuk’s protest continues

Sonam Wangchuk has been on an indefinite hunger strike at Jantar Mantar after joining demonstrations over the alleged NEET-UG 2026 paper leak and examination irregularities.

The protesters are demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and are seeking accountability over the conduct of the national medical entrance examination.

As Wangchuk’s fast continues, concerns about his health have intensified, with supporters repeatedly calling for the government to engage in discussions.

More film personalities extend support

Kulkarni’s announcement adds to the growing list of film personalities who have publicly backed Wangchuk’s protest.

Actors Shabana Azmi, Abhay Deol, Zeenat Aman, Omi Vaidya, and filmmaker Anurag Kashyap are among those who have voiced support for the activist and appealed for dialogue.

Their statements have drawn attention to the ongoing protest and increased public discussion around the demands being raised.

Protest continues as calls for talks grow

With Wangchuk’s hunger strike entering another critical phase, appeals for negotiations continue to gather momentum.

Supporters believe that constructive dialogue between the government and protesters could help address concerns surrounding the alleged examination irregularities while avoiding further escalation.

For now, Kulkarni’s symbolic fast reflects a growing demand from several public figures for peaceful engagement and a timely resolution to the ongoing protest.

FAQs

1. Why is Atul Kulkarni observing a hunger strike?

Atul Kulkarni is observing a one-day hunger strike to express solidarity with Sonam Wangchuk and to urge the government to begin talks with the activist.

2. When will Atul Kulkarni’s one-day fast take place?

The actor announced that he will observe the symbolic hunger strike on July 16 from his home.

3. Why is Sonam Wangchuk on a hunger strike?

Sonam Wangchuk joined protests over the alleged NEET-UG 2026 paper leak and examination irregularities, demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.

4. Where is Sonam Wangchuk protesting?

Wangchuk is continuing his indefinite hunger strike at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi.

5. What message did Atul Kulkarni give to the government?

He appealed to the government to begin dialogue immediately, saying discussions are essential to resolve the ongoing situation.

6. Did Atul Kulkarni ask the public to participate?

Yes. He encouraged people who support the cause to observe a one-day fast and share his message on social media.

7. Which celebrities have supported Sonam Wangchuk?

Several personalities, including Shabana Azmi, Abhay Deol, Zeenat Aman, Anurag Kashyap, and Omi Vaidya, have publicly expressed support.

8. What are the protesters demanding?

The protesters are demanding accountability over the alleged NEET-UG 2026 paper leak and the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.

9. How long has Sonam Wangchuk been fasting?

Sonam Wangchuk’s indefinite hunger strike has entered its 19th day.

10. Why is Atul Kulkarni’s support significant?

His announcement adds to the growing support from members of the film industry, increasing public attention on Wangchuk’s protest and the call for dialogue.