Opposition leaders criticized the BJP-led Centre for moving climate activist Sonam Wangchuk to a hospital from the protest site at Jantar Mantar, calling it an attack on democracy. Wangchuk, who had been on a 20-day hunger strike demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over NEET paper leaks, was hospitalized due to deteriorating health. The Delhi High Court’s directions and medical advice prompted this move.
Congress MP Imran Pratapgarhi expressed disappointment, highlighting the government’s failure to engage with Wangchuk peacefully. Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) leader Amit Thackeray labeled the incident as a dark day in Indian politics, emphasizing the lack of dialogue with the fasting activist. Congress leader Sachin Pilot stressed the need for discussions on Wangchuk’s concerns and criticized the government’s unresponsiveness to legitimate demands.
Leader of Opposition in the Rajasthan Assembly, Tika Ram Jully, accused the government of neglecting dialogue efforts with Wangchuk, leading to international support for the activist. Trinamool Congress MP Saugata Ray termed the situation unfortunate, supporting Wangchuk’s call for the Education Minister’s resignation. Political activist Yogendra Yadav condemned the Delhi Police’s actions as shameful and illegal.
In response, BJP MP Dinesh Sharma accused the Opposition of fueling chaos and division, emphasizing compliance with court orders. JD(U) leader Neeraj Kumar emphasized the right to express opinions in a democracy but cautioned against resorting to physical distress. He stressed the government’s duty to show empathy, noting the necessity of hospitalizing Wangchuk for his well-being.
