Rahul Gandhi Criticises Government Over Sonam Wangchuk’s Removal From Delhi Protest Site
The Congress leader alleges suppression of peaceful protests, while police say Wangchuk was moved to hospital for medical care.
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has criticised the central government over the removal of climate activist Sonam Wangchuk from Jantar Mantar in Delhi, calling the action against a peaceful protest unacceptable.
In a post shared on X, Rahul Gandhi accused the Narendra Modi government of following the principles of falsehood and violence. He said shifting Wangchuk during his hunger strike was a wrong step and questioned the government’s approach towards peaceful demonstrations.
The Leader of Opposition also highlighted wider concerns affecting students across the country. He pointed to issues such as examination paper leaks, increasing education costs and student suicides, saying these matters require serious attention.
Rahul Gandhi said that attempts to stop students and citizens from raising their concerns would not silence public voices. His remarks came as the Congress extended support to Wangchuk’s protest and the issues raised by him.
Meanwhile, the Delhi Police said Wangchuk was shifted to Safdarjung Hospital on July 18 after his health condition worsened during his hunger strike. The police stated that the decision was taken following medical advice and directions from the Delhi High Court.
According to the police, some protesters tried to prevent the transfer, leading to a brief disturbance. Officials said that the situation was handled with restraint and that the operation was completed safely.
However, the Centre for Public Interest Journalism disputed the police’s explanation and accused authorities of forcibly taking Wangchuk to the hospital. The group claimed that his condition had not significantly deteriorated and alleged that the move was aimed at weakening the ongoing protest.
The organisation also questioned whether the court order allowed for his forced removal and raised concerns over the medical basis behind the decision.
Wangchuk’s wife, Gitanjali J Angmo, said the planned march to Parliament on July 20 would continue as scheduled. She stated that if Wangchuk is unable to participate, she would lead the march herself.
She added that removing Wangchuk from the protest site would not stop the movement or prevent supporters from continuing to raise their demands.