‘It’s very scary’: Vidya Malavade condemns Sonam Wangchuk’s removal, backs students amid Jantar Mantar protests

Vidya Malavade Voices Concern Over Sonam Wangchuk’s Removal, Supports Student Protests at Jantar Mantar

Bharatmorningnews.com – Actor Vidya Malavade, celebrated for her roles in Chak De! India and Mismatched, has lent her voice to education reformer Sonam Wangchuk’s ongoing hunger strike at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar, which has reached a pivotal moment. She expressed deep unease after reports surfaced about Sonam being forcibly taken from the protest site and admitted to Safdarjung Hospital. Malavade stressed the need for the government to hold discussions with students who are rallying against alleged irregularities in the NEET-UG examination, emphasizing that their perspectives deserve attention.

Instagram Appeal Highlights Emotional Response

Vidya shared a video on Instagram detailing her anguish over Sonam’s recent treatment. In the clip, she described the incident as deeply distressing, highlighting the emotional toll on the activist and the broader movement.

“It’s heart-breaking to see what’s happening in our country right now. The way Sonam Wangchuk ji has been treated, it’s not just frustrating but also very scary. But the dignity and grace that Gitanjali ma’am is showing, that is the foundation that this great country is built on,” she stated.

Celebrity Solidarity Boosts Protest Momentum

On July 19, several prominent figures joined the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) demonstration at Jantar Mantar, standing in solidarity with Sonam and the students driving the movement. Shabana Azmi, Prakash Raj, Mushtaq Khan, and Poonam Pandey were among those present, underscoring the widespread support for the cause.

Hunger Strike and Health Concerns

Sonam Wangchuk has been on an indefinite hunger strike since June 28, demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over alleged NEET-UG paper leaks and other exam anomalies. The protest, organized by CJP, has grown steadily, attracting students and citizens advocating for greater transparency in India’s education system.

The situation escalated on Saturday when CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke claimed Delhi Police had violently removed Sonam from the protest site. The incident occurred shortly after Sonam disclosed he had lost nearly 20% of his body weight during the fast. Despite worsening health, he remains resolute, vowing to continue until meaningful change is achieved.

Legal Proceedings and Judicial Scrutiny

Legal actions unfolded on Saturday as the Delhi High Court summoned Sonam to cooperate with medical staff at Safdarjung Hospital following his health decline on the 21st day of the fast. The court rejected a request by Sonam’s wife, Gitanjali Angmo, to transfer him to a private facility, directing authorities to file a comprehensive health report within three days. The case is set for further deliberation on July 24.

Preparation for Sansad Chalo March

As the Cockroach Janata Party plans its ‘Sansad Chalo’ march on Monday, larger crowds have gathered at Jantar Mantar. Abhijeet Dipke called on supporters to remain united through a night-long vigil, while Gitanjali Angmo hinted that Sonam might end his fast if political leaders commit to addressing education accountability in Parliament.