Agencies | Mumbai:
Actor Sonakshi Sinha has voiced support for activist and education reformer Sonam Wangchuk, who is on an indefinite hunger strike in New Delhi amid the ongoing CJP protests. In a video statement shared on social media, Sinha expressed concern over Wangchuk’s deteriorating health and urged the government to initiate dialogue with him.
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“I’ve never issued a statement like this before, but today we can’t ignore Sonam Wangchuk. We all know him, his contributions to the country, his achievements and the recognition he has received,” Sinha said.
Referring to Wangchuk’s prolonged fast, she said, “He hasn’t eaten anything for days. Who is he doing this for? He is doing this for the future of children who lost their lives. He is fighting against a system that is not working properly. I know this, you know this, we all know this.”
Questioning the silence surrounding the issue, the actor said she could no longer refrain from speaking out.
“Many people are still silent. I can’t remain silent. Whatever happens, let it happen. I have to speak,” she said.
Appealing to the government to engage with Wangchuk, Sinha added, “Why is nobody listening? Nobody seems to care. Why is there no dialogue?”
She also clarified that expressing concern over the issue should not be viewed as being against the nation. “Main koi anti-national nahi hu (I am not anti-national),” she said.
Sonakshi Sinha joins a growing list of film personalities who have publicly expressed concern over Wangchuk’s health and extended support to his protest. Veteran actors Zeenat Aman, Prakash Raj, Naseeruddin Shah, Ratna Pathak Shah, Abhay Deol and Omi Vaidya are among those who have voiced solidarity with the activist.
In a recent social media post, Zeenat Aman said her thoughts were with Wangchuk as he continued his indefinite fast. Referring to reports about his health, she urged the authorities to engage in dialogue rather than allowing the situation to worsen.
Actor Omi Vaidya, best known for his role as Chatur in 3 Idiots, also appealed to the public to learn more about Wangchuk’s work and the issues behind his protest, while expressing concern over his health.
