The indefinite hunger strike at Jantar Mantar in Delhi, organized by Tibetan Youth Congress to press the demands of the Tibetan people, enters the third day. After a brief respite in the form of showers, hot and humid weather conditions returned to summer Delhi, making things harder for the determined participants.
The two hunger strikers who were sick on the second day are now feeling better. Ven Gelek Gyatso Yougang, the monk suffering from diarrhoea, looks frail, but the frequency of his diarrhea is becoming low and showing signs of improvement. Mr. Tsewang Dhargyal is having some relief from his headache.
The hunger strikers use their time to listen to the speeches and teachings of the Dalai Lama played on audio cds, and read books about Buddhism as well as general topics.
Dawa Gyalpo, a former hunger striker, is in the second batch of the current hunger strikers. He is also assisting the hunger strikers as a volunteer. He recounted his past experiences: “Normally day second and third will be tough for the hunger strikers due to the sudden halt in eating. But, on the fourth and the following few days they will somehow get used to their empty stomach, and it is a bit bearable. However, the more difficult days are ahead after about a week, as ones’ stomach starts to become very painful.”
A matter of concern is the health of one of the participants, (the name cannot be disclosed), whose feet are remaining cold. “I am concerned about this development at this stage — normally one’s feet become cold only after twenty or more days. Getting cold feet is an acute sign of weakness, the participant could be internally weak,” says Dawa Gyalpo.
Mr. Tsultrim Dorjee Chunang, the General Secretary, and Mr. Dhondup Dorjee, Information Secretary, of the Tibetan Youth Congress, went to the India Prime Minister’s Office under police escort, where they submitted an appeal letter to the Prime Minister of India. The letter requested the Prime Minister to pressure China to respond to the demands of the fourteen hunger strikers. After leaving the PMO office, they approached the Indian Olympic Committee at their office and handed them a petition letter meant to be given to Mr. Jacques Rogge, President of the International Olympics Committee (IOC).
Individual Tibetans living in Delhi are visiting the site, giving support and encouragement for the hunger strikers by offering scarves and donations. These visits are helpful in uplifting the morale of the hunger strikers.
