Alleged Attack at Jantar Mantar
New Delhi: Tension rose at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar after someone allegedly threw an object toward climate activist and engineer Sonam Wangchuk, who continues his indefinite hunger strike.
Abhijeet Dipke, founder of the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), made the allegation and claimed that unidentified people tried to disrupt the peaceful protest. Wangchuk reportedly escaped injury, but the incident raised concerns among his supporters about his safety.
“Goons tried to attack Sonam sir at Jantar Mantar. An object was thrown at him, but fortunately, he was not hurt,” Dipke claimed while addressing supporters and the media.
Dipke Claims Prior Warning
Dipke also alleged that he had received information about a possible attempt to disturb the protest. According to him, a police insider had warned him several days earlier about possible disruptions at Jantar Mantar.
“A few days ago, I had warned that people would be sent to Jantar Mantar to disrupt the protest after I was informed by an insider in the police,” Dipke alleged.
He further claimed that the government should take responsibility if anyone harmed Wangchuk. Dipke described the protest as peaceful and democratic and alleged that some people wanted to undermine it.
Police Yet to Confirm Attack
Delhi Police had not officially confirmed the alleged attack when this report was written. Authorities have also not independently verified Dipke’s claims about people deliberately trying to disrupt the demonstration.
The lack of official confirmation means the circumstances surrounding the alleged incident remain unclear.
Wangchuk Continues Hunger Strike
The alleged incident comes as Sonam Wangchuk entered the 21st day of his hunger strike at Jantar Mantar.
Wangchuk has used the protest to highlight issues concerning Ladakh, including demands for constitutional safeguards, environmental protection and preservation of the region’s cultural identity.
Students, environmental activists, civil society groups and citizens from several parts of the country have expressed support for his campaign.
Wangchuk Taken to Safdarjung Hospital
The controversy intensified on Saturday when Delhi Police took Wangchuk to Safdarjung Hospital.
Dipke alleged that police took the activist to the hospital “forcefully” and against his wishes. Videos circulating on social media showed police personnel escorting Wangchuk away from the protest venue, although the exact circumstances remain unclear.
Authorities have not publicly explained whether they moved Wangchuk to the hospital for medical monitoring because of his prolonged fast or for another reason.
Supporters Demand Clarity
The alleged incident and Wangchuk’s hospital transfer have triggered discussions on social media. Supporters have raised concerns about his safety and called for greater transparency.
Some users have also demanded an impartial inquiry into the alleged incident, while others have urged authorities to protect peaceful protesters.
Claims Remain Unverified
For now, Dipke’s allegations remain unverified. Law enforcement agencies have not independently confirmed who allegedly threw the object or why the incident occurred.
The circumstances surrounding Wangchuk’s transfer to Safdarjung Hospital also remain unclear.
As the protest continues, statements from Delhi Police, hospital authorities and government officials could provide further clarity on the developments at Jantar Mantar.