Atul Kulkarni to Observe One-Day Fast in Support of Sonam Wangchuk, Urges Government to Begin Dialogue

Actor Atul Kulkarni has announced that he will observe a one-day hunger strike on July 16 from his home in support of educationist and climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, who has been on an indefinite fast at Delhi's Jantar Mantar.

Sharing a video message on social media, the Rang De Basanti actor urged the Central government to begin dialogue with Wangchuk without delay, saying communication was the need of the hour as the activist's hunger strike entered its 19th day.

Atul Kulkarni Announces One-Day Hunger Strike

Kulkarni said his decision to fast was driven by two objectives—expressing solidarity with Sonam Wangchuk and urging the government to engage in meaningful discussions with the protesters.

In his video message, the actor said:

"Tomorrow, on July 16, I will be observing a one-day hunger strike from my own home. Firstly, I want to connect with the pain that Sonam ji and his associates are going through. Secondly, I want to request our government to show its sensitivity towards the matter."

He appealed to people who resonate with Wangchuk's concerns to participate in the symbolic one-day fast and share his message on social media.

'Dialogue Should Begin Without Delay'

Kulkarni said he does not believe the government is insensitive, pointing out that it has demonstrated empathy in various situations in the past.

According to the actor, differing viewpoints may have led to a communication gap rather than an unwillingness to listen.

"Perhaps there are some misunderstandings due to which this sensitivity is not being expressed, and a dialogue is not taking place. My request to the government is that they should begin this dialogue without delay," he said.

Quoting a saying, Kulkarni added:

"Dard ka dard se rishta hona bohot zaroori hai."

He concluded by encouraging people to come together through a one-day fast as a peaceful expression of solidarity.

Several Celebrities Extend Support

Atul Kulkarni joins a growing list of film personalities who have publicly expressed support for Sonam Wangchuk during his ongoing hunger strike.

Celebrities who have voiced support include:

• Shabana Azmi
• Abhay Deol
• Zeenat Aman
• Anurag Kashyap
• Omi Vaidya

The actor's announcement further amplifies calls for dialogue as concerns over Wangchuk's health continue to grow.

Why Is Sonam Wangchuk on Hunger Strike?

Sonam Wangchuk is currently observing an indefinite hunger strike at Delhi's Jantar Mantar alongside members of the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP).

The protesters are demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over alleged irregularities and the reported paper leak in the NEET-UG 2026 examination conducted on May 3.

With Wangchuk's fast entering its 19th day, public attention has increasingly shifted toward his health and the demand for discussions between the protesters and the government.

Key Highlights

• Atul Kulkarni will observe a one-day hunger strike on July 16.
• The actor is supporting Sonam Wangchuk, whose indefinite fast has entered Day 19.
• Kulkarni urged the government to begin dialogue without delay.
• He encouraged citizens to join the symbolic one-day fast from their homes.
• Several film personalities have also expressed support for Wangchuk.

FAQs

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 initiate dialogue with the protesters.

When will Atul Kulkarni's fast take place?

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

Why is Sonam Wangchuk on an indefinite hunger strike?

Sonam Wangchuk is protesting over alleged irregularities and the reported paper leak in NEET-UG 2026, demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.

Which celebrities have supported Sonam Wangchuk?

Celebrities including Shabana Azmi, Abhay Deol, Zeenat Aman, Anurag Kashyap, Omi Vaidya and Atul Kulkarni have publicly expressed support.

Where is Sonam Wangchuk's protest taking place?

Sonam Wangchuk is on an indefinite hunger strike at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi.