Actor Shekhar Suman has expressed support for education reformer and climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, praising his ongoing hunger strike and calling him “the one truly alive” in a society that often remains indifferent to injustice. Suman dedicated a segment of his talk show Shekhar Tonite to Wangchuk’s protest, describing it as a powerful reminder of the courage required to stand up for public causes.
In the episode, Suman reflected on Wangchuk’s decision to undertake an indefinite fast in support of students protesting alleged irregularities in competitive examinations, including the NEET paper leak controversy. He said that while many people continue with their daily lives, Wangchuk has chosen to risk his own health for the future of millions of students.
“Among all the living corpses around us, he is the one truly alive,” Suman remarked, adding that Wangchuk’s determination demonstrated what genuine commitment to a cause looks like. He said society often admires people who make sacrifices only after they are gone, instead of supporting them while they continue their struggle.
Suman also questioned why more influential voices had not spoken up in support of Wangchuk. According to the actor, the activist’s protest is not about personal gain but about protecting the integrity of India’s education system and ensuring justice for students affected by examination controversies. He urged people to recognise the significance of Wangchuk’s campaign rather than treating it as just another news story.
The actor further said that history remembers individuals who choose to fight for larger public causes despite personal hardship. Referring to Wangchuk’s fast, Suman said such acts of conviction inspire society to question established systems and demand accountability. He also appealed to citizens to extend moral support to those raising concerns about issues affecting young people across the country.
Wangchuk began his hunger strike on June 28 at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar in solidarity with students demanding accountability following allegations of irregularities in competitive examinations. His protest has called for reforms in the examination system and greater transparency from authorities. Over the past three weeks, the movement has received support from students, activists and several public figures across the country.
On Saturday, the activist was shifted to Delhi’s Safdarjung Hospital after his health deteriorated on the 21st day of the fast. Delhi Police said the decision was taken on medical advice and in line with court directions to safeguard his health. Doctors later stated that Wangchuk was stable but remained weak because of prolonged fasting and dehydration, requiring continuous medical monitoring.
The hospitalisation has intensified the debate surrounding Wangchuk’s protest. While authorities maintained that the move was necessary to protect his life, supporters alleged that he was taken to the hospital against his wishes. The development also prompted fresh demonstrations by supporters, with several activists vowing to continue the movement until its demands are addressed.
Suman joins a growing list of personalities from the entertainment industry who have publicly expressed concern over Wangchuk’s health. In recent days, actors including Aamir Khan, Imran Khan, Atul Kulkarni, Omi Vaidya and Hrithik Roshan have either backed the activist’s demands or appealed for dialogue while urging him to prioritise his health.
Known for speaking candidly on social and political issues, Suman used his latest television appearance to highlight what he believes is a larger moral question surrounding public responsibility. By describing Wangchuk as “truly alive,” the actor argued that meaningful change depends on individuals willing to challenge injustice despite personal risk. His remarks have since been widely shared on social media, adding another prominent voice to the growing public support for Wangchuk’s campaign and the demand for reforms in India’s examination system.