Uddhav Thackeray Announces Support for CJP Protest, Appeals to Wangchuk to End Hunger Strike

Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray on Monday extended his support to the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) protest in New Delhi over alleged examination irregularities, including the NEET-UG paper leak controversy. Addressing a press conference in Mumbai, Thackeray announced his support for the movement and urged political parties, including Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, to back the protest.

Thackeray also appealed to climate activist and educator Sonam Wangchuk to end his indefinite hunger strike, which he said had become a matter of concern. Describing Wangchuk’s life as “precious,” the former Maharashtra chief minister criticised the Centre, alleging that the government had shown a lack of sensitivity towards the ongoing protest and had failed to engage with the activist.

The CJP protest at Jantar Mantar has been demanding accountability over alleged examination irregularities and has sought the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. The organisation has also demanded compensation for families of students who died by suicide following the NEET paper leak controversy. The protest, which began on June 20, entered its 24th day, while Wangchuk joined the demonstration on June 28 and began an indefinite hunger strike.

Also Read: Uddhav Thackeray Urges Rahul Gandhi To Meet Sonam Wangchuk During Hunger Strike

According to the CJP, Wangchuk’s health has deteriorated during the hunger strike, with the organisation claiming that he has lost over eight kilograms and that his blood glucose levels have fallen. The group has announced a march to Parliament on July 20, coinciding with the opening day of the Monsoon Session, while Thackeray said the Shiv Sena (UBT) would hold a separate protest in Maharashtra in support of the cause.

Thackeray said the issue should not be viewed as a political movement but as a matter concerning students, young people, and their families. He urged parties across the country to organise demonstrations in their respective states and said Shiv Sena (UBT) MPs would raise the matter during the upcoming Parliament session.

The Shiv Sena (UBT) leader also referred to past events involving Wangchuk, saying the country should have benefited from his expertise and contributions. He reiterated his appeal for the activist to withdraw his hunger strike, stating that discussions should take place to resolve the issue. Meanwhile, Thackeray announced that he would travel to Nagpur on July 18 to participate in another protest related to allegations of misuse of donations connected with the Ram Temple in Ayodhya.

Also Read: Wangchuk Continues Hunger Strike On Day 7 As Health Deteriorates Rapidly