SPCC terms action against Wangchuk 'blow to democracy'

GANGTOK,: Sikkim Pradesh Congress Committee (SPCC) president Gopal Chettri has strongly condemned the manner in which activist Sonam Wangchuk was removed by the authorities from his peaceful protest site at Jantar Mantar, New Delhi on Saturday.

In a media statement, the SPCC president said the manner in which Sonam Wangchuk was removed from his peaceful protest site at Jantar Mantar has deeply shocked and disturbed every citizen who believes in democracy and the Constitution of India.

“A man who has dedicated his life to education, environmental conservation, and nation-building was treated in a manner that many would ordinarily associate with a dangerous criminal. Reports and visuals showing him being taken away under the cover of white sheets, amid a heavy police presence, have raised serious questions about the conduct of the authorities. Such scenes have no place in a vibrant democracy,” said Chettri.

He maintained that if the authorities were genuinely acting to safeguard his health in accordance with medical advice and judicial directions, the entire process should have been carried out transparently, respectfully, and with dignity. Instead, the operation has created the impression of unnecessary force and secrecy, further eroding public trust, he said.

“What happened at Jantar Mantar is, in our view, not merely an action against one individual-it represents a serious blow to the spirit of democracy. When peaceful voices are met with force instead of dialogue, democracy itself is weakened. Silencing peaceful dissent is not the hallmark of a confident democracy but a troubling sign that constitutional values are being ignored.”

The SPCC president said the BJP-led government must answer why a peaceful, non-violent protester had to be handled in such a manner. Peaceful protest is a constitutional right, and those who raise their voices for justice deserve dialogue—not intimidation, he said.

He expressed that Sonam Wangchuk has brought immense pride to the nation through his contributions to education, innovation, environmental protection, and the welfare of people living in the Himalayan region.

“His service to the country has earned him admiration across India and the world. Such an individual deserves respect, not humiliation”.

“The Sikkim Pradesh Congress Committee strongly condemns any excessive use of state power against peaceful protesters. We call upon the Government of India to uphold democratic values, respect the dignity of every citizen, and ensure that the rights guaranteed by the Constitution are protected without fear or favour,” said the SPCC president.