The appeal, also signed by writer Arundhati Roy, economist Jayati Ghosh and several academics, filmmakers and activists, expressed solidarity with Sonam Wangchuk's demands while stressing that the movement needs its leaders to remain healthy for the long fight ahead

Actors Naseeruddin Shah and Ratna Pathak Shah have joined a growing list of public figures urging education reformer and climate activist Sonam Wangchuk to end his indefinite hunger strike, citing concerns over his worsening health. Their appeal comes hours after actors Zeenat Aman, Omi Vaidya, Prakash Raj and Shreya Dhanwanthary extended their support to Wangchuk's ongoing protest.

The appeal, also signed by writer Arundhati Roy, economist Jayati Ghosh and several academics, filmmakers and activists, expressed solidarity with Wangchuk's demands while stressing that the movement needs its leaders to remain healthy for the long fight ahead.

According to organisers, the Cockroach Janta Party's (CJP) protest has entered its 24th day, while Wangchuk has completed 16 days of his indefinite fast. On Day 17, CJP founder Abhijit Dipke shared an update on X, stating, “Total Weight Loss- 8.2 Kg, Blood Glucose Level- 67, Blood pressure- 107/70.”

In the statement shared by PTI, the signatories praised Wangchuk and fellow protesters for their commitment to students and young people across the country. “We salute your sense of purpose, the determination and courage with which you are spearheading this movement for students and youth across the country,” the statement read.