Rahul Gandhi Slams Centre After Sonam Wangchuk's Hospitalisation, Says 'Force Cannot Silence Students'
Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi on Saturday criticised the Centre after climate activist Sonam Wangchuk was shifted from Delhi's Jantar Mantar protest site to Safdarjung Hospital, alleging that the government's response to a peaceful protest reflected its approach towards public dissent.
Wangchuk, who had been on an indefinite hunger strike in support of demands linked to alleged NEET examination irregularities, was moved to the hospital after his health reportedly worsened following more than three weeks of fasting. Delhi Police said the transfer was carried out on medical advice and in compliance with directions issued by the Delhi High Court.
Reacting to the development, Rahul Gandhi accused the government of suppressing a non-violent movement instead of engaging with the concerns raised by students and protesters.
"The core tenets of the Modi government are Asatya and Hinsa. The removal of Sonam Wangchuk ji from Jantar Mantar while he was on a non-violent hunger strike is wrong."
The Congress leader said issues such as repeated examination paper leaks, the increasing cost of education and rising student suicides require urgent national attention. He asserted that the use of force would not prevent students and their supporters from demanding accountability and reforms.
"Paper leaks, the rising cost of education, and student suicides are critical issues for India's future. No amount of force can deter India's students, and those of us who love and believe in them, from raising these issues."
Rahul Gandhi's remarks came a day after he addressed the 'Chhatron Ki Goonj' rally in Dehradun, where he called for comprehensive reforms in India's education and examination system. During the event, he argued that educational institutions should remain free from political influence and stressed the need for a collective political effort to curb recurring paper leak incidents.
Earlier on Saturday, Delhi Police shifted Wangchuk from the protest site to Safdarjung Hospital after doctors reportedly expressed concern over his deteriorating health. The activist had been leading an indefinite hunger strike and was expected to head a protest march towards Parliament before his hospitalisation.
In an official statement, Delhi Police said the decision was taken after expert medical advice and in accordance with the Delhi High Court's directions.
"As per orders of the Hon'ble High Court and on expert medical advice due to the deteriorating health condition of Sh. Sonam Wangchuk, he has been shifted to the hospital for essential medical care."
The hospitalisation has intensified the political debate surrounding the ongoing protest, with opposition leaders accusing the Centre of ignoring the concerns raised by students and activists, while authorities maintain that the move was necessary to protect Wangchuk's health.
