Support for activist Sonam Wangchuk’s hunger strike over alleged irregularities in India’s National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) expanded beyond the country’s borders, with demonstrations taking place in several major international cities. Protesters gathered in New York, San Jose, London, and Dublin to express solidarity and call for greater transparency in India’s examination process.
The overseas events were coordinated by the advocacy organization Hindus for Human Rights. According to the group, supporters assembled near Mahatma Gandhi’s statue in New York City’s Union Square while another gathering was held in San Jose on July 20. Additional demonstrations took place outside the Indian High Commission in London and the Indian Embassy in Dublin, reflecting growing international attention to the issue.
Participants at the rallies displayed banners and placards expressing support for Wangchuk’s campaign while raising concerns about the integrity of the NEET examination system. Demonstrators also voiced criticism of the Indian government’s handling of the controversy and demanded the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. Organizers said the events were peaceful and intended to draw attention to the concerns surrounding the examination process.
Following the demonstrations, Hindus for Human Rights released a statement explaining the purpose of the coordinated protests. The organization said the rallies were designed to emphasize the importance of fairness, transparency, and accountability in India’s education system. It argued that students should have confidence in competitive examinations that play a crucial role in determining their academic and professional futures.
The advocacy group stated that the demonstrations, held across multiple countries, were meant to send a unified message that Indian students deserve an examination system built on integrity and equal opportunity. It stressed that confidence in public institutions depends on transparent processes and timely responses to concerns raised by students and their families.
The statement further urged the Indian government to engage in meaningful discussions and pursue reforms aimed at strengthening the credibility of national examinations. Organizers maintained that restoring trust requires open communication and effective measures to address allegations of irregularities.
As support for Wangchuk’s campaign continues to gain international visibility, the demonstrations underscore the growing interest among members of the Indian diaspora and global advocacy groups in issues affecting India’s education system. The coordinated rallies reflect broader calls for reforms that ensure fairness, accountability, and public confidence in high-stakes examinations.
