Srinagar, July 16: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday expressed concern over activist Sonam Wangchuk’s deteriorating health during his ongoing hunger strike, saying the government should engage with him as he continues his protest over alleged examination paper leak controversies.
Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of a condolence visit, Abdullah said Wangchuk has been on a hunger strike for 19 days and has lost around nine kilograms, but the Centre has not made any effort to engage with him.
“It has been 19 days since he began his hunger strike. He has lost around nine kilos, and it is affecting his health. Politics has its place, but there should also be humanity and compassion. Surprisingly, the government has not even tried to persuade him to end the fast,” Abdullah said.
Drawing a comparison with the UPA government’s handling of Anna Hazare’s anti-corruption movement, Abdullah said ministers had then reached out to persuade the protesters to end their fast, but no such initiative has been taken in Wangchuk’s case.
“When Anna Hazare and others were on a hunger strike, the government sent ministers to speak to them. Here, no one has even attempted to talk to Sonam Wangchuk,” he said.
Abdullah said Wangchuk’s demand for accountability over examination irregularities was justified.
“Their demand is not wrong. We are also seeking justice in this matter. I do not understand why the government is not paying attention to these issues,” he said.
Asked whether his party would support Aam Aadmi Party leader Arvind Kejriwal on the issue, Abdullah replied in the affirmative.
“Of course, we will support him. Many people have gone there. We are also asking for justice,” he said.(KNS).
