Sonam Wangchuk Denies Allegations of Deal with Government as Protests Intensify in Delhi

Environmental activist Sonam Wangchuk has categorically dismissed claims suggesting that he reached an agreement with the Union government, allowing him to terminate his hunger strike a day earlier than planned. This statement came amid ongoing protests organized by the Cockroach Janta Party at Jantar Mantar in Delhi, where demonstrators are demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over alleged mismanagement of competitive examinations.

In a video message released on Friday night, Wangchuk emphasized that he had refrained from calling for Pradhan’s resignation directly, as he believed it was already a foregone conclusion given the escalating protests. Instead, Wangchuk’s focus has been on advocating for justice for students and young individuals affected by police actions, including the filing of First Information Reports (FIRs) against them.

Wangchuk’s hunger strike concluded shortly after midnight on Friday, witnessed by Union ministers JP Nadda and Jitendra Singh. He expressed disappointment over the absence of Opposition MPs and members of the Cockroach Janta Party, who he had hoped would visit him in the hospital but were reportedly denied access.

Meanwhile, the protests at Jantar Mantar show no signs of abating. The founder of the Cockroach Janta Party, Abhijeet Dipke, disclosed that he has been diagnosed with typhoid but remains resolute in continuing the struggle until Pradhan steps down. Demonstrations in solidarity with their cause have been observed across several Indian cities, amplifying the demand for accountability in the education sector.

In a related development, the Delhi Metro has closed 18 stations as a precautionary measure amidst the rising tensions surrounding the protests. Commuters were advised to seek alternative travel routes, reflecting the extent of the unrest sparked by the ongoing campaign against the government’s handling of educational affairs. As protests continue, the situation remains fluid, with activists and supporters rallying for their cause in the heart of the capital.

Source: scroll.in