Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray on Sunday launched a sharp attack on the BJP-led Central government, questioning why it had not initiated talks with activist Sonam Wangchuk despite his prolonged protest. Addressing a public rally in Mumbai, Thackeray alleged that the Centre was avoiding dialogue instead of addressing the concerns raised by Wangchuk.
Referring to the government's handling of the protest, Thackeray said, "Why is there no dialogue with Sonam Wangchuk? You cannot hide the truth behind a sheet." He compared the situation with past governments, recalling that during Anna Hazare's anti-corruption movement, senior ministers had engaged directly with the activist. Thackeray also cited former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi's meeting with Wangchuk's father during a hunger strike, arguing that governments should respond through discussion rather than silence.
The former Maharashtra Chief Minister further accused the BJP of ignoring democratic voices and questioned why Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan had not held discussions with Wangchuk. He claimed that the Centre was attempting to suppress public concerns instead of finding a solution through dialogue.
Thackeray also broadened his criticism of the BJP-led government, alleging that it lacked accountability and had failed to address issues affecting students and young people. Referring to the controversy surrounding the NEET examination and Wangchuk's campaign, he urged citizens to unite against what he described as an unresponsive government. At the rally, he said the fight should now be against a government that refuses to answer people's concerns, rather than focusing on individual leaders alone.
The remarks came just ahead of the Monsoon Session of Parliament, where the opposition is expected to raise several contentious issues, including the government's handling of Wangchuk's protest. Several opposition leaders, including Sharad Pawar, have also expressed support for Wangchuk and indicated that the matter would be raised in Parliament.
