Tharoor Appeals to Wangchuk to End Fast, Urges Government Dialogue on NEET Row
Congress MP Shashi Tharoor on Wednesday appealed to activist Sonam Wangchuk to end his hunger strike at Jantar Mantar over alleged irregularities in the NEET examination. In an open letter, Tharoor urged the government to engage in dialogue, stating that such a move is not a sign of weakness but statesmanship.
The protest, organized by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), has been ongoing for 25 days. Wangchuk joined the agitation on June 28 and has been on an indefinite fast since then, entering its 15th day on Wednesday. Reports indicate that Wangchuk is suffering from muscle loss and immense pain, but has refused to end his fast despite appeals from various quarters.
Tharoor's letter addressed the young protesters, acknowledging their concerns about the integrity of the examination system. He shared his personal background, noting that he came from a middle-class family and relied on merit-based opportunities. He emphasized that a fair examination system is crucial for students from lower- and middle-income families.
"When that ladder is broken — papers leaked, examinations cancelled, trust destroyed — the children of the rich and powerful do not suffer," Tharoor wrote. "It is your dreams, and your families' sacrifices that are betrayed."
Tharoor pointed out that Parliament is set to reconvene on July 20, providing a platform to raise the students' concerns. He urged Wangchuk to end his fast, saying, "That's where the problem should be addressed, not by fasting unto death."
Tharoor also called on the government to initiate dialogue, asserting that it is the responsibility of democracy to engage with young citizens. The CJP has announced a march to Parliament on July 20 to press their demands, including the resignation of the Education Minister over the NEET controversy.
The development underscores the ongoing tensions over the conduct of the NEET exam, which has been marred by allegations of paper leaks and irregularities. The government has yet to respond formally to Tharoor's appeal.
