Anna Hazare Urges Centre to Hold Talks With Sonam Wangchuk
Social activist Anna Hazare has appealed to the Union government to begin discussions with Sonam Wangchuk, warning that it should not continue testing the limits of the educationist and climate activist during his indefinite hunger strike.
Hazare said the government should clearly accept or reject Wangchuk’s demands but questioned why it was unwilling to hold talks with him. His intervention came after Wangchuk was shifted from Delhi’s Jantar Mantar to Safdarjung Hospital amid growing concern over his health.
Government Should Give Clear Answer
Hazare urged the Centre to respond directly to the issues raised by Wangchuk instead of allowing the standoff to continue.
“The government should not test his limits. Say yes or no to his demands, but what is wrong in holding discussions?” Hazare said.
Wangchuk has been demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over the alleged NEET paper leak scandal. July 18 marked the 21st day of his indefinite hunger strike.
Wangchuk Shifted to Hospital
Delhi Police moved Wangchuk to Safdarjung Hospital after concerns were raised about his deteriorating health. Police said the action was taken in accordance with a Delhi High Court direction requiring authorities to monitor his condition and intervene if necessary.
However, supporters alleged that Wangchuk was removed from the protest site against his wishes. Protest organisers also accused police personnel of arriving in plain clothes and presenting themselves as members of a medical team.
Hazare Draws on His Protest Legacy
Hazare’s appeal carries added significance because of his own history of hunger strikes. His 2011 anti-corruption agitation in Delhi became a nationwide movement and placed enormous pressure on the then Union government to enact stronger anti-corruption legislation.
His comments have added to mounting calls from political leaders and civil-society figures for the government to engage with Wangchuk before his health deteriorates further.
