PUNE: Maharashtra Congress MLA Nana Patole on Sunday accused the Centre of adopting an “authoritarian” approach following the hospitalisation of climate activist Sonam Wangchuk after the 21st day of his indefinite hunger strike, alleging that the government’s actions reflected an attempt to weaken democratic institutions.
Addressing reporters in Pune, Patole criticised the Delhi Police’s decision to shift Wangchuk to Safdarjung Hospital, claiming the activist was removed against his will. He also announced that the Congress would participate in a protest march against Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the opening day of the Monsoon Session of Parliament on Monday.
Wangchuk was admitted to Safdarjung Hospital on Saturday after Delhi Police intervened following concerns over his deteriorating health. A senior police official said the action was taken in compliance with directions issued by the Delhi High Court and that the activist was receiving the necessary medical treatment.
The activist has been on an indefinite hunger strike since June 28 in support of the Cockroach Janta Party-led agitation over alleged irregularities in the NEET examination and the reported deaths of students linked to the controversy.
Questioning the government’s handling of the situation, Patole alleged that democratic rights were being curtailed. “The developments in the Sonam Wangchuk case indicate that an authoritarian style of governance is taking shape. Public anger against the government is growing. The Centre has enacted provisions under which a person on an indefinite hunger strike can be booked for attempting suicide and imprisoned,” he claimed.
He further alleged that Delhi Police personnel forcibly removed protesters by wrapping them in sheets, and questioned whether such action was consistent with the Delhi High Court’s directions.
Patole also demanded stringent action against those allegedly involved in the NEET controversy, asserting that individuals found guilty of corruption in the examination process deserved the harshest punishment under the law.
Referring to fresh allegations concerning discrepancies in marksheets, the Congress leader claimed the controversy had deepened and alleged that public resentment was spreading across the country.
Commenting on the demise of veteran socialist leader Dr Kumar Saptarshi, who passed away on Saturday, Patole described him as a lifelong public servant whose death had created a profound void in Maharashtra’s socio-political landscape.
“A committed activist who dedicated his life to the people is no more. Maharashtra has lost one of its finest sons. I pay my heartfelt tributes to him,” Patole said.
