The West Bengal Science Forum has appealed to the Central Government to immediately initiate dialogue with education reform activist and engineer Sonam Wangchuk, expressing deep concern over his reported deteriorating health during his ongoing indefinite hunger strike.
Wangchuk has been observing the fast at the protest site organized by the Citizens for Justice and Peace (CJP), where demonstrators are demanding accountability over the alleged NEET examination irregularities and seeking the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. The Science Forum stressed that protecting Wangchuk's life should be the government's foremost priority, irrespective of political differences.
Speaking on behalf of the organization, General Secretary Sourav Chakraborty highlighted Wangchuk's remarkable contributions to science, innovation, and environmental conservation. He noted that Wangchuk has earned national and international recognition for promoting sustainable technologies, climate-resilient solutions, and educational reforms in remote Himalayan regions.
The forum stated that reports regarding Wangchuk's declining physical condition have generated widespread concern across the country. According to the organization, the life of a respected scientist, innovator, and environmental campaigner must not be placed at risk under any circumstances.
The Science Forum urged the Centre to engage in constructive discussions with Wangchuk without further delay and address the concerns raised through democratic dialogue. It emphasized that meaningful communication remains the most effective way to resolve disagreements while safeguarding human life and upholding democratic values.
The appeal reflects growing calls from civil society groups for a peaceful resolution to the ongoing protest, with the forum reiterating that immediate negotiations could help prevent further deterioration in Wangchuk's health and restore confidence in democratic processes.
