Congress Leader Criticizes Government for Police Action Against Climate Activist

Senior Congress leader Pawan Khera has condemned the government's police action against climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, accusing it of undermining constitutional rights. Following Wangchuk's health concerns during a hunger strike, Khera emphasized the importance of dissent in a democracy. He criticized the government's pattern of disrespect towards democratic rights, citing various incidents that reflect a troubling mindset. This situation raises significant questions about the government's commitment to upholding constitutional values and the treatment of peaceful protests in India.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 18, 2026, 16:45 IST

Government's Response to Climate Activism Under Fire

Senior Congress figure Pawan Khera expressed strong disapproval of the central government's actions against climate activist Sonam Wangchuk on Saturday. He accused the government of suppressing the constitutional right to dissent. Following a prolonged hunger strike, Wangchuk was taken to Safdarjung Hospital due to health concerns from the ongoing protest at Jantar Mantar. In a post on social media, Khera emphasized that the Constitution guarantees the right to express disagreement, yet the Home Ministry appears intent on obstructing this right. He pointed out that the Delhi Police operates directly under the Home Ministry, which recently appointed a new police commissioner in the capital. Khera further stated that if today's actions mark the new commissioner's first task, it sends a chilling message about prioritizing political obedience over constitutional duties.

Khera continued to assert that the government's actions reflect a blatant disregard for democratic rights. He highlighted incidents ranging from the mistreatment of female wrestlers to the disrespect shown towards former soldiers, indicating a consistent pattern of contempt for the Constitution. Today's actions reveal the government's mindset, suggesting that peaceful protests are not seen as fundamental democratic rights deserving protection, but rather as law and order issues to be suppressed.