Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Saturday criticised the Centre over the removal of climate activist Sonam Wangchuk from the protest site at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar, alleging that the government was suppressing a peaceful democratic movement.
In a post on social media platform X, Rahul Gandhi described the incident as “wrong” and accused the Narendra Modi government of following the principles of “Asatya” (falsehood) and “Hinsa” (violence).
Rahul Gandhi Links Protest to Student Concerns
Expressing support for Wangchuk’s ongoing protest, Rahul Gandhi said issues such as alleged examination paper leaks, the rising cost of education and student suicides remain among the country’s most pressing concerns.
He asserted that no amount of force could silence students or those supporting their cause, reiterating the Congress party’s backing for the protest seeking accountability over alleged NEET examination irregularities.
Delhi Police Defends Hospitalisation of Wangchuk
Earlier on Saturday, Delhi Police shifted Wangchuk to Safdarjung Hospital after his health reportedly deteriorated during the 21st day of his indefinite hunger strike.
In an official statement, the police said the decision was taken in compliance with Delhi High Court directions and based on expert medical advice.
According to the statement, Wangchuk was moved to the hospital for essential medical care due to his worsening health condition.
The police also stated that while implementing the High Court’s directions, some protesters attempted to obstruct the operation, leading to a brief commotion. However, officers exercised restraint and completed the transfer safely.
CJP Alleges Forced Removal
The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), which is leading the protest, strongly disputed the police’s version of events.
The organisation alleged that Wangchuk’s removal amounted to a “forced abduction” carried out without his or his family’s consent, just days before the group’s proposed ‘Chalo Sansad’ march scheduled for July 20.
CJP leaders maintained that Wangchuk’s health had not deteriorated to the extent claimed by the authorities and argued that the Delhi High Court had not directed police to forcibly remove him from the protest site.
Protest Over Alleged NEET Irregularities Continues
Wangchuk has been observing an indefinite hunger strike in support of the CJP-led campaign demanding accountability over alleged irregularities in the NEET examination and seeking the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.
Despite Wangchuk’s hospitalisation, the CJP has announced that the planned march to Parliament on July 20 will proceed as scheduled.
The developments have intensified the political debate surrounding the protest, with the ruling authorities and protest organisers continuing to present conflicting accounts of Wangchuk’s removal from Jantar Mantar.
