Irom Sharmila Urges Collective Action in Support of Sonam Wangchuk's Hunger Strike

New Delhi, India Jul 18, 2026 ALN: Irom Sharmila, a prominent activist known for her long-standing advocacy for human rights and social justice in India, has recently voiced her support for fellow activist Sonam Wangchuk, who has been on a hunger strike at Jantar Mantar in Delhi since June 26. Sharmila, who gained international recognition for her 16-year hunger strike against the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA), has called upon the public to rally behind Wangchuk’s cause, emphasizing that the responsibility for enacting change does not rest solely on one individual but is a collective duty that requires the involvement of all citizens.

Wangchuk’s hunger strike is part of a broader political campaign led by the Cockroach Janta Party, which is demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. The campaign accuses the minister of mismanagement in the administration of competitive exams, an issue that has sparked significant unrest among students and educational stakeholders across the country. This protest is not just about one individual’s grievances but reflects a growing frustration with systemic failures in the education sector, which many argue have been exacerbated by governmental policies and decisions.

In a phone conversation from Bangalore, where she lives with her family, Sharmila articulated her concerns about the current political climate and the need for public mobilization. "It is not Sonam’s burden alone, and people should not expect him to be martyred," she stated. Her comments highlight a crucial aspect of effective protest: the necessity for a united front. Sharmila believes that if the public collectively takes to the streets, it would create pressure on the government, compelling it to address the issues at hand. This sentiment underscores the importance of solidarity in social movements, particularly in a democratic society where the voices of the many can outweigh the actions of the few.

Sharmila’s own history of activism began in November 2000, following a tragic incident in which ten civilians were killed by personnel from the Assam Rifles in Malom, Manipur. This event catalyzed her long hunger strike, which lasted until 2016, as she sought to repeal the AFSPA, an act that has been widely criticized for enabling human rights abuses by security forces in conflict areas. Her experience has shaped her understanding of the challenges faced by individual protestors, especially when public support is lacking. She noted that during her own struggle, she often felt isolated, with many in her community expecting her to bear the weight of the protest alone. "While they praised my efforts, they did not offer the support I needed," she reflected, pointing out the importance of community involvement in activism.

As Wangchuk’s protest enters its 28th day, the Indian government has yet to respond to his demands. Sharmila expressed concern over the current state of public engagement with such protests, suggesting that the lack of unity among citizens diminishes their potential impact. "The demand is significant, but without a united front, the government is not compelled to respond," she remarked. This observation raises important questions about the efficacy of protests in the current political landscape, where individual voices may be overlooked by authorities who may not feel threatened by solitary actions.

Sharmila drew parallels between Wangchuk's situation and the farmers’ protests that took place from 2020 to 2021, which successfully led to the repeal of three controversial farm laws. She emphasized that mass mobilization is essential for effective protest, stating, "A protest will only succeed if there is a mass united agitation." Her experience during her hunger strike in Manipur, where public support was minimal, serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of collective action. Without widespread participation, even the most heartfelt protests can struggle to gain the attention they deserve.

Reflecting on her own journey, Sharmila noted the emotional toll of feeling isolated in her activism. She recalled how many in her community wanted her to embody the role of a martyr rather than actively participate in the struggle. "People in Manipur wanted me to be a martyr for the cause," she explained, highlighting a common phenomenon in social movements where individual leaders are placed on a pedestal while broader community engagement is neglected. This dynamic can hinder the progress of movements, as the burden of advocacy falls disproportionately on a few individuals.

When discussing the broader political context in India, Sharmila expressed skepticism regarding the effectiveness of fasting as a protest method under the current Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) regime. She criticized the political landscape, arguing that both major parties, including the Congress and the BJP, often disregard the democratic rights of citizens. "In India, those who criticize the government are often silenced through imprisonment or violence," she stated, reflecting a growing concern over the shrinking space for dissent in the country.

Despite Wangchuk’s peaceful protest taking place in the capital, Sharmila noted that participation has been limited, with only a few hundred young people showing their support. She emphasized that in a democratic society, the youth have a crucial role in correcting systemic wrongs. "It is not just Sonam Wangchuk’s responsibility. He needs collective moral support and the commitment of the masses," she urged. Sharmila's call to action resonates with the belief that meaningful change requires the active involvement of citizens, particularly the youth, who are often seen as the torchbearers of social movements.

In conclusion, Irom Sharmila's appeal for collective action in support of Sonam Wangchuk's hunger strike underscores the importance of unity in the face of systemic injustices. Her insights draw on her own experiences as an activist, highlighting the challenges of individual protest in a political environment that often marginalizes dissent. As the struggle for justice and accountability continues, the need for a united front becomes increasingly clear, reminding us that the fight for change is a shared responsibility that transcends individual efforts.