Education reform activist and engineer Sonam Wangchuk participated in a protest organised by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) in Delhi, where he paid tribute to examination aspirants and demanded greater accountability in the education system.
Information was available with The Chenab Times that Wangchuk began his address by laying flowers before photographs of aspirants whose deaths have been highlighted by the protesters. He subsequently spoke about the intense struggles faced by students preparing for competitive examinations such as NEET, JEE, and the Civil Services Examination.
“I have seen how hard aspirants work for these examinations, and then they suffer,” Wangchuk stated, referencing the difficulties encountered by candidates seeking government jobs and higher education opportunities.
Drawing upon his personal experiences, Wangchuk alleged that government officials and civil servants are frequently subjected to pressures that impede their independent functioning. He claimed, referring to his past detention and accusations, that diligent officers are sometimes prevented from executing their duties in accordance with legal frameworks.
Questioning the ethical implications of compromising principles for government employment, Wangchuk asserted that individuals should not “sell their soul” in exchange for salaries or positions. He cautioned, “If we abandon honesty, we become part of the same dishonest system.”
The activist specifically accused Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan of failing to ensure accountability within the education sector, asserting that the minister should resign. Wangchuk argued that fundamental religious teachings emphasise truth and righteousness, standards to which public officials should be held.
Wangchuk highlighted that education and environmental protection have been central pillars of his public advocacy. He stressed that examination-related issues are not solely student concerns but represent broader societal matters affecting the populace at large.
In his discussion on democratic accountability, Wangchuk alluded to recent developments concerning Ladakh. He alleged that previously made commitments regarding democratic representation have not been fulfilled, underscoring the necessity for citizens to persistently demand accountability from governments and institutions.
Evoking the legacies of Mahatma Gandhi and Lord Ram, Wangchuk recited the couplet: “Raghu kula reet sada chali aaye, praan jaaye par vachan na jaaye,” emphasizing the importance of unwavering commitment and honouring one’s word.
He urged the assembled protesters to maintain their commitment to peaceful and principled activism. “We have to bring accountability. This movement is about asking questions of the government,” he declared.
The remarks were met with widespread applause from the protesters gathered at the venue. Participants expressed their resolve to continue advocating for reforms in recruitment processes, examination systems, and the overall governance of educational institutions.
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The Chenab Times News Desk
