The Congress leader criticised the Modi government over Wangchuk’s removal from Jantar Mantar and expressed support for the activist’s protest.
July 18, 2026: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Saturday criticised the Narendra Modi government over the removal of activist Sonam Wangchuk from Jantar Mantar, alleging that peaceful protests were being suppressed. In a post on X, Rahul described Wangchuk’s removal during his non-violent hunger strike as “wrong” and said the government’s core principles were “Asatya and Hinsa.”
Linking the protest to broader student concerns, Rahul Gandhi said issues such as paper leaks, rising education costs and student suicides could not be ignored. He asserted that “no amount of force” could stop students or those supporting them from raising these concerns, signalling the Congress party’s backing for Wangchuk’s protest.
Sonam Wangchuk was shifted to Delhi’s Safdarjung Hospital on July 18 after Delhi Police said his health had deteriorated. Police maintained the decision was taken in compliance with the Delhi High Court’s directions and based on medical advice. However, the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) rejected the police’s account, alleging Wangchuk was taken without his or his family’s consent and describing the move as a “kidnapping.” CJP leaders claimed the High Court had not ordered his forcible removal and questioned the medical basis for the action. Meanwhile, Wangchuk’s wife, Geetanjali J. Angmo, said his hunger strike continues and vowed to lead the planned July 20 march to Parliament if he is unable to participate.