Raijor Dal chief and Sibsagar MLA Akhil Gogoi has criticised the hospitalisation of climate and social activist Sonam Wangchuk, alleging that he was taken to hospital against his will and describing the move as a violation of his fundamental and constitutional rights. Gogoi demanded Wangchuk’s immediate release and reiterated his call for the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.
Addressing reporters, Gogoi said the manner in which Wangchuk was shifted to a hospital while observing an indefinite hunger strike was deeply disturbing. He asserted that, as a representative of Assam and the Northeast, he was seeking Wangchuk’s immediate release.
He further said Wangchuk’s protest was not confined to issues related to the education system but had evolved into a broader struggle concerning the country’s future. Gogoi also maintained that the demand for the resignation or dismissal of the Union Education Minister should be accepted, adding that Wangchuk was fighting for the interests of future generations.
Wangchuk was shifted from the protest site at Jantar Mantar to Safdarjung Hospital by Delhi Police on Saturday after his health deteriorated during his hunger strike. He has been protesting over alleged irregularities in national examinations, including the NEET paper leak controversy, and has been demanding the resignation of Dharmendra Pradhan.
Meanwhile, the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) has continued its agitation at Jantar Mantar and announced a march to Parliament on the opening day of the Monsoon Session. However, sources told ANI that the organisation has not yet sought permission from Delhi Police for the proposed march.
Sources also indicated that even if permission is sought, it is unlikely to be granted in view of the heightened security arrangements during the Monsoon Session of Parliament. Delhi Police routinely impose prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) in the New Delhi district during Parliament sessions, particularly around Parliament House and India Gate.
The police action has drawn criticism from several Opposition leaders, including AAP national convenor Arvind Kejriwal, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, Congress leader Pawan Khera, Trinamool Congress chairperson Mamata Banerjee and leaders of the Samajwadi Party.
