Wangchuk’s wife questions India’s Republic Day celebrations amid rights denial
New Delhi: Gitanjali J Angmo, wife of Ladakh-based climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, expressed her disillusionment with India’s Republic Day celebrations, questioning the meaning of the day when constitutional rights are being denied.
According to Kashmir Media Service, Wangchuk, a Magsaysay Award-winning activist, has been detained under the draconian National Security Act for four months without trial, sparking concerns about the erosion of democratic values.
Angmo criticized the Modi government’s priorities, saying, “How much of taxpayers’ money is spent on pageantry… When the foundation is shaky, you can’t inspire people based on pageantry.” She highlighted issues like unemployment, pollution, and the state of education, which she believes are being ignored ².
The detention of Wangchuk, who was advocating for statehood and Sixth Schedule status for Ladakh, has sparked protests and raised questions about the government’s commitment to democracy and human rights. Angmo’s sentiments echo concerns about India’s human rights record, with some critics arguing that the government is suppressing dissent.
