Prominent Indian educator and climate activist Sonam Wangchuk has urged citizens to take leadership in ongoing protests, distancing himself from comparisons to Mahatma Gandhi. His appeal came on the 14th day of his indefinite hunger strike at Jantar Mantar in Delhi, where he joined a broader agitation against alleged examination irregularities and for the resolution of issues concerning Ladakh.
Rejecting the 'Hero' Label
In a video message shared on Friday night, Wangchuk acknowledged feeling weaker but reaffirmed his unwavering resolve. He expressed discomfort with supporters calling him a "modern Gandhi" or a "hero." "I am neither Gandhi nor a hero. I am just an ordinary citizen who has tried to fulfil his responsibilities," Wangchuk stated, emphasizing that people should not wait for individuals to act on their behalf.
He urged, "Please don't look for a hero in someone else. Be the hero of your own life. Fulfil your responsibilities as a citizen."
Health Update and Protest Demands
Wangchuk, who began his fast on June 28, has reportedly lost 7.5 kilograms, with his blood pressure recorded at 106/74 mm Hg. Despite health concerns, he insists his participation is voluntary and any attempt to remove him would violate his constitutional right to peaceful protest.
The educator joined the Cockroach Janta Party's (CJP) 22-day-long agitation, which demands the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and a compensation of Rs 1 crore for families of students who allegedly died by suicide due to examination irregularities. Wangchuk also highlighted the need for an early resolution of issues affecting Ladakh.
Call for Collective Action and Parliament March
Wangchuk appealed to the public to actively participate in the movement, likening the situation to personal loss. "If one of those students had been your sister or daughter, you would have joined us. But don't wait for that," he asserted.
He encouraged people to join the protest at Jantar Mantar, even for a single day, or observe a fast locally if they cannot travel to Delhi. Furthermore, he reiterated his call for a march to Parliament scheduled for July 20, aiming to press lawmakers to address the protesters' demands. "Like us, you don't have to remain hungry for 24 days. Come after having your meal. But take responsibility as citizens and join us on July 20," he concluded.