Mumbai/New Delhi: Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray has come out in support of activist Sonam Wangchuk, launching a sharp attack on the BJP-led Central government over its response to Wangchuk's ongoing hunger strike. Thackeray alleged that the government has shown little concern for the country's youth and has failed to address the issues raised by the activist.
In a post on X, Aaditya Thackeray wrote, "The BJP has absolutely no concern for young India." Referring to Wangchuk's indefinite fast, he said the Centre's silence reflects its indifference towards students and young citizens demanding accountability. He also questioned why Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan had not responded to the concerns surrounding the alleged NEET-UG 2026 paper leak.
Sonam Wangchuk, an engineer, education reformer and climate activist from Ladakh, is currently on an indefinite hunger strike at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi. His protest is in solidarity with the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP)-led agitation demanding the resignation of the Union Education Minister over alleged irregularities in the NEET examination. Wangchuk's health has reportedly deteriorated significantly after more than two weeks without food, prompting widespread concern from civil society groups and opposition leaders.
The Delhi High Court has already directed authorities to ensure daily medical monitoring of Wangchuk and to provide immediate treatment if doctors find his condition worsening. The court observed that preserving human life is of paramount importance and instructed the government to act on medical advice whenever necessary.
Aaditya Thackeray also criticised the Centre for what he described as prioritising divisive politics over addressing the concerns of students and young people. He said that instead of engaging with Wangchuk's demands or responding to growing public anxiety over examination-related issues, the government had chosen to remain silent.
The BJP has not issued a direct response to Thackeray's latest remarks. However, the Centre has informed the Delhi High Court that Wangchuk is being examined regularly by government doctors and that appropriate medical care will be provided whenever required.
As Wangchuk's hunger strike enters a critical phase, political reactions continue to intensify, with opposition leaders demanding greater accountability from the government while supporters urge immediate action to safeguard the activist's health.
