On Thursday, activist Sonam Wangchuk emphasized the need for a ‘peaceful revolution’ in India’s political leadership. Speaking in New Delhi, Wangchuk argued that significant changes are essential for India to maintain its status as a ‘respectable nation’ by the year 2047. His call to action reflects a growing sentiment among citizens seeking accountability and reform in the country’s governance.
Wangchuk congratulated those who had sought change and protested over the past two months, saying the agitation had also seen a change in the Union education ministry. “Voice was raised against one party’s government in Delhi, and that voice, then in another states, another party government, they also did the same injustice, and suppressed it in the same way. “But do you know, if you look at our Parliament, then almost half of the Parliament members are accused of crimes. One third are seriously accused of murder, rape, kidnapping.
Wangchuk also referred to the political change that followed the anti-corruption movement of 2012-13, saying the subsequent change in government had not eliminated corruption and injustice. “But today, after 12 years, corruption and injustice have taken on a new form. But it is also 2-3 times bigger than that, and is staring into our eyes, and is scaring us,” he said.
He said he had been unwell over the past few days and had spent time thinking about the country and its future. “Fifty years ago, the neighbouring countries that were behind us, or were equal to us, have now gone miles away from us,” he said, naming Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh. “If we talk about per capita GDP, and if this continues, then in 2047, we will not be a developed country, but we will not even be able to show our face in the world market,” he said. So it’s not even a matter of parties,” he said. So how can the country develop in such a situation?” he said.
