Sonam Wangchuk gets big political backing amid hunger strike: Check names

Sonam Wangchuk, a prominent climate activist, has received substantial political backing as he continues an indefinite hunger strike at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi. The protest began on June 28, when Wangchuk joined the ongoing Citizens for Justice and Peace (CJP) agitation, and he has remained on the strike since then. Political figures such as Akhilesh Yadav, Uddhav Thackeray, Arvind Kejriwal, and Mahua Moitra have publicly supported Wangchuk, who is currently on his 17th day of fasting. According to CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke, Wangchuk has lost more than 8.5 kilograms and his blood pressure stands at 109/70 as of Tuesday. Akhilesh Yadav, president of the Samajwadi Party, has called upon Wangchuk to discontinue his hunger strike, emphasizing the global importance of his actions. Yadav stated that Wangchuk's life is "invaluable to the entire world" due to his unwavering dedication to humanity, the environment, and democracy. In a message shared on social media, Yadav urged Wangchuk to break his fast, highlighting that his commitment serves as an inspiration to the youth and those fighting for democratic values and environmental protection. Yadav also criticized the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), describing it as a "principle-less" and "corrupt" system. He argued that seeking any meaningful response or change from the party is "utterly futile," citing its "insensitivity and heartlessness." Yadav further accused the party of prioritizing wealth over morality, suggesting that its members are "intoxicated with the arrogance of wealth earned through corruption." He warned that hoping for reform within the party is in vain, noting that those who are "arrogant cannot be refined." In addition to condemning the BJP, Yadav drew parallels between the current situation and the ongoing investigation into the Ram Temple donation probe. He questioned how individuals who engage in "looting even temples out of greed for power ('satta-graha')" could comprehend the significance of nonviolent resistance, or "Satyagraha." Yadav emphasized that these individuals show no regard for the future of the youth or the aspirations of families, labeling them as "self-centered." Yadav concluded by expressing hope that Wangchuk's "morale and moral strength" will continue to inspire the nation's youth and those engaged in protecting democracy and the environment. He wished for Wangchuk's efforts to contribute to the permanent removal of the BJP, which he describes as "strangling democracy," and for Wangchuk to remain a "beacon of light" for his fellow citizens. Uddhav Thackeray, leader of the Shiv Sena, has also shown strong support for Wangchuk and the CJP cause. In a recent phone call with Dipke, Thackeray expressed deep concern over Wangchuk's deteriorating health and urged him to end his hunger strike. Details of the conversation were shared on X, where Dipke noted that Thackeray had "earnestly appealed to Sonam Sir to end his hunger strike." Thackeray's involvement underscores the growing political solidarity behind Wangchuk's protest. As the hunger strike continues, the situation remains under close scrutiny, with both supporters and critics monitoring the developments. The outcome of this protest and its impact on political discourse in India will likely be a subject of ongoing discussion and analysis.