New Delhi, July 18, 2026

The removal of climate activist Sonam Wangchuk from Delhi's Jantar Mantar has intensified the political debate over student issues and education reforms. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi criticised the action, saying it reflected an attempt to suppress peaceful voices raising concerns about examination irregularities, rising education costs and the growing pressure faced by students. The development has once again brought the country's education system into the national spotlight.

In a post on X, the Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha said, "The removal of Sonam Wangchuk ji from Jantar Mantar while he was on a non-violent hunger strike is wrong." He also described the Modi government's guiding principles as "Asatya" (falsehood) and "Hinsa" (violence). Stressing support for students, Gandhi added, "No amount of force can deter India's students, and those of us who love and believe in them, from raising these issues," while using the hashtag #ChhatronKiGoonj. Wangchuk has been fasting since June 28 in support of the CJP-led campaign over alleged NEET examination irregularities, while Delhi Police shifted him to a hospital on Saturday, citing medical advice and directions from the Delhi High Court.

A day earlier, Gandhi addressed the 'Chhatron Ki Goonj' rally in Dehradun, where he called for comprehensive reforms in India's education and examination system. He alleged that nearly 7.5 crore students had been affected by paper leaks and claimed the problem was linked to a "corrupt system" involving coaching centres, examination centres, paper setters, transporters, the National Testing Agency (NTA) and the Union education ministry. He also advocated replacing the existing examination model with a student-centric framework featuring secure question banks and technology-enabled randomised question papers.

Earlier on Saturday, Gandhi shared a video recalling his meeting with Rajesh Kumar, the father of Riya Kumari, who died by suicide following the cancellation of the NEET-UG examination. Describing the tragedy as a reminder of the emotional toll on families, he said India's education system must be rebuilt to create a safer and more supportive environment for students. Meanwhile, protest organisers have stated that the July 20 march to Parliament will proceed as scheduled.