‘We Need You’: Naseeruddin Shah and Ratna Pathak Shah Urge Sonam Wangchuk to End Hunger Strike Amid Health Concerns

Veteran actors Naseeruddin Shah and Ratna Pathak Shah have joined the growing list of public figures appealing to education reformer and climate activist Sonam Wangchuk to end his indefinite hunger strike, saying the country needs his voice and leadership.

In a heartfelt message, the couple expressed deep concern over Wangchuk's worsening health and urged him to discontinue the fast while continuing his campaign through other democratic means.

The appeal comes as Wangchuk's hunger strike entered its 17th day, intensifying concerns among supporters, doctors and political leaders.

'We Need You,' Say Veteran Actors

In their public message, Naseeruddin Shah and Ratna Pathak Shah praised Wangchuk's decades-long contribution to education, environmental conservation and sustainable development.

Urging him to prioritise his health, they appealed to the activist to call off the hunger strike, stressing that his continued work and advocacy are more valuable than risking his life.

Their statement has resonated widely on social media, with many users echoing the sentiment that Wangchuk's movement should continue without endangering his health.

Growing Concern Over Wangchuk's Health

Reports indicate that Wangchuk has lost a significant amount of weight since beginning the hunger strike, raising fears about the impact of the prolonged fast on his health.

Medical experts have cautioned that extended hunger strikes can lead to serious complications, prompting repeated appeals from supporters and well-wishers for him to seek medical care.

Despite mounting concern, Wangchuk has continued his protest, maintaining that his demands require urgent attention.

Support Across Political and Cultural Circles

The veteran actors' appeal follows similar calls from several opposition leaders, including Arvind Kejriwal, Akhilesh Yadav, Uddhav Thackeray, Aaditya Thackeray and Mahua Moitra, who have expressed solidarity with Wangchuk's cause while urging him to end the fast.

Bollywood actor Omi Vaidya, best known for playing Chatur "Silencer" Ramalingam in 3 Idiots, also recently urged the public to support Wangchuk, warning that the activist's life could be at risk if the hunger strike continues.

The growing chorus of voices from politics, cinema and civil society reflects increasing concern over Wangchuk's physical condition.

The Protest Continues

Sonam Wangchuk's protest has drawn nationwide attention, with supporters gathering in solidarity and demanding dialogue on the issues raised by the activist.

As the hunger strike enters its third week, pressure is mounting on all stakeholders to find a peaceful resolution while ensuring Wangchuk's health does not deteriorate further.

For now, the repeated appeals from prominent personalities underline a common message: the movement needs Wangchuk's leadership, but it also needs him to remain healthy enough to continue it.