Rahul Gandhi Backs Sonam Wangchuk, Calls His Removal from Jantar Mantar ‘Wrong’
Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi has come out in support of activist Sonam Wangchuk, criticising the government’s decision to remove him from Jantar Mantar while he was on an indefinite hunger strike.
In a post on social media, Gandhi accused the Modi government of being guided by the principles of “Asatya” (falsehood) and “Hinsa” (violence), describing the police action against Wangchuk as unjustified.
Rahul Targets Government Over Police Action
Gandhi said removing Wangchuk during a non-violent hunger strike was wrong and argued that the government should have engaged in dialogue instead of using force.
He linked Wangchuk’s protest to broader concerns over alleged NEET paper leak irregularities, the rising cost of education and increasing student distress, saying these were issues that deserved serious national attention.
‘Force Cannot Silence Students’
The Congress leader asserted that no amount of force could deter students from raising issues affecting their future. He maintained that peaceful democratic protests should be respected and urged the government to address the concerns raised by Wangchuk and the protesting students through constructive engagement.
His remarks mark one of the strongest political endorsements of Wangchuk’s ongoing agitation from a senior opposition leader.
Protest Continues Amid Political Reactions
Wangchuk was shifted to Safdarjung Hospital after his health deteriorated following a prolonged hunger strike. Doctors have described his condition as serious, citing severe dehydration and physical weakness.
The incident has intensified political debate, with several opposition leaders and civil society figures calling for dialogue between the government and the protestors, while authorities maintain that the decision to hospitalise Wangchuk was taken to protect his life.
