India, July 17 -- Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday urged the Centre to engage with Ladakh-based activist Sonam Wangchuk, who has been on an indefinite hunger strike for 19 days, saying the government should respond with "humanity and compassion" instead of remaining silent as his health worsens.

Speaking to reporters in Srinagar, Omar said Wangchuk's deteriorating health was a matter of concern after nearly three weeks of fasting.

"The surprising thing is that it has been 18 days, perhaps the 19th day is going on. He has lost about 9 kilograms, and it is affecting his health. But the government is not budging or even appealing to him in any way to stop his hunger strike. Politics has its place, but somewhere there should also be...