Sonam Wangchuk has issued an ultimatum to the government regarding the alleged arrests of several leaders during the ongoing Cockroach Janata Party protest in the capital, Delhi. He stated that if the government doesn’t end all these arrests by this evening, he may hold a peaceful protest in Delhi or Leh. He also released a video explaining why he is staying away from the ongoing protest in Delhi.
Posting a video on the social media platform X on Saturday, social activist Sonam Wangchuk said, “Today I learned that several people, including lawyers, journalists, students, politicians, and MPs, have been arrested in Delhi. I had requested people a day earlier to maintain peace during the protests. Therefore, I believe that peaceful protests will be allowed in the world’s largest democratic country.”
Sonam Wangchuk, targeting the government, said, “Looking at the current situation, it seems as if an undeclared emergency has been imposed across the country.”
Wangchuk condemned the arrests and said, “I request the government to end all these arrests and resolve the cases by this evening.” He issued an ultimatum to the government, saying, “If all these arrests are not lifted within 24 hours, I will also hold a peaceful protest. This protest could take place in Delhi or Leh.” However, Wangchuk clarified, “I hope the government will resolve these issues through dialogue and we will not have to take such steps.”
A day earlier, Sonam Wangchuk had released a video explaining his compulsion to not participate in the protests taking place in Delhi. He stated, “Despite the government’s attempts to obstruct and sabotage our work, we will continue to work for the security of the country and are also preparing for the coming winter.”
Wangchuk explained that they are currently experimenting with creating artificial glaciers and protecting against GLOFs (glacial lake floods) to conserve water, reducing the risk of the more than 200 “ticking water bombs” (large reservoirs of water ready to explode) in the high Himalayas. He recited Faiz’s poetry, saying, “There are other sorrows in the world besides politics… There are other solaces besides the relief of union.”
He added, “Therefore, I extend my best wishes to everyone and appeal to the leaders of different groups to remain united and show understanding. I also request all my GenZ friends to maintain complete peace under all circumstances. I was trying to carry this same teaching of Bapu to Jantar Mantar in June; I hope we will not disappoint Bapu.”