Omar Abdullah Urges Centre to Engage With Sonam Wangchuk as Hunger Strike Enters 19th Day
Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday expressed concern over the deteriorating health of activist and educator Sonam Wangchuk, urging the Central Government to engage with him as his indefinite hunger strike entered its 19th day. Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel
Speaking to reporters during a condolence visit, Abdullah said Wangchuk had lost around nine kilograms since beginning his fast and warned that his health was steadily worsening.
“It has been 19 days since he began his hunger strike. He has lost around nine kilos, and it is affecting his health. Politics has its place, but there should also be humanity and compassion. Surprisingly, the government has not even tried to persuade him to end the fast,” Abdullah said.
The Chief Minister criticised the Centre for not initiating dialogue with Wangchuk despite his prolonged protest. Drawing a comparison with the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government’s response to social activist Anna Hazare’s anti-corruption movement, Abdullah said ministers had then reached out to protesters to resolve the issue through discussions.
“When Anna Hazare and others were on a hunger strike, the government sent ministers to speak to them. Here, no one has even attempted to talk to Sonam Wangchuk,” he said.
Abdullah also backed Wangchuk’s demand for accountability over alleged examination paper leak controversies, saying the concerns raised by the activist were justified.
“Their demand is not wrong. We are also seeking justice in this matter. I do not understand why the government is not paying attention to these issues,” he added.
Responding to a question on whether his party would support Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Arvind Kejriwal on the issue, Abdullah replied in the affirmative.
“Of course, we will support him. Many people have gone there. We are also asking for justice,” he said.
Sonam Wangchuk has been on an indefinite hunger strike demanding accountability over alleged irregularities and repeated paper leaks in competitive examinations. His protest has drawn growing attention from political leaders, civil society groups and the judiciary, amid increasing concerns over his health.
(With inputs from KNS)
