‘Standing With Students Means Showing Up’: Sonam Wangchuk’s Wife Takes Aim At Congress Protest

New Delhi: Gitanjali Angmo, wife of climate activist and education reform advocate Sonam Wangchuk, has questioned the Congress party’s decision to stage a protest near Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s residence, saying political leaders should have stood alongside students when they needed support the most instead of joining the issue later.

Her remarks came after Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and other party members protested over the handling of the ongoing student agitation. While the demonstration drew national attention, Angmo said symbolic political gestures cannot replace genuine support offered during the height of a public movement.

Speaking to the media, Angmo said those claiming to stand with students should have been present when young protesters were demonstrating on the streets and facing police action. According to her, real solidarity is measured by actions taken during difficult moments rather than by protests organised after events have unfolded.

Her comments have added a political dimension to an agitation that has increasingly become the focus of national debate. While opposition parties have accused the government of failing to address students concerns, the ruling BJP has alleged that the protests are being used for political mileage.

Angmo also spoke about her husband, who has been at the centre of the movement. She said Wangchuk has remained committed to his demands despite health concerns and has continued to call for peaceful, democratic engagement. She reiterated that the movement is centred on students and their future, urging political parties not to shift attention away from the issues being raised.

The Congress, meanwhile, has defended its protest, maintaining that it is standing with students and raising questions over the government’s response. Rahul Gandhi has repeatedly criticised the Centre over the issue and demanded accountability, arguing that students deserve transparency and justice.

The exchange highlights the growing political battle surrounding a movement that began with students concerns but has now drawn activists, opposition leaders and civil society groups into the debate. With Parliament in session and demonstrations continuing in the national capital, the issue has become one of the most closely watched political developments in the country.

As protests continue, the focus remains on whether the government and stakeholders can find common ground while ensuring that the concerns raised by students are addressed. For many involved in the movement, the message remains unchanged the priority should be the future of students rather than political point scoring.

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