Sonam Wangchuk Joins Hyderabad CJP Protest, Backs Demand for Dharmendra Pradhan's Resignation

Education reform activist Sonam Wangchuk arrived in Hyderabad on Sunday, June 14, to participate in a student-led protest organised by the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) at the city's Dharna Chowk.

The demonstration drew a large crowd of students, activists, and supporters, all calling for changes in the country's education policies and demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.

The peaceful protest highlighted growing concerns among students over higher education issues and the future of academic institutions in India.

Sonam Wangchuk Reaches Hyderabad for the Protest

Sonam Wangchuk, widely known for his work in the field of education and sustainable development, reached Hyderabad on Sunday morning and directly joined the gathering at Dharna Chowk. Ahead of his visit, he had shared a message on social media platform X, expressing excitement about meeting people in Hyderabad and Bengaluru on the same day.

In his post, Wangchuk wrote, "See you Bangalore, see you Hyderabad! Tomorrow I'll be seeing you all in Hyderabad in the morning and Bangalore in the evening... Looking forward!"

Keeping his promise, he addressed the protesters in Hyderabad before leaving for Bengaluru later in the day.

Hundreds of Students Join the Dharna

The protest witnessed the participation of students from the University of Hyderabad (UOH) and several other educational institutions. Many gathered with banners and placards, raising slogans against what they described as shortcomings in the Centre's education policies.

Organisers of the protest said the aim was to draw attention to issues affecting higher education, including concerns about academic freedom, student welfare, and policy decisions that they believe have been made without adequate consultation with students and educators.

The atmosphere remained energetic but peaceful, with participants urging the government to listen to the voices of young people.

Wangchuk Voices Support for Students

Sonam Wangchuk's presence added significant momentum to the protest. The education activist, who has often spoken about the need for better learning systems and innovation in education, expressed solidarity with students raising concerns over policy changes.

Addressing the gathering, he emphasised the importance of protecting academic autonomy and ensuring that education remains accessible and inclusive for all sections of society. His speech was welcomed with loud cheers from the crowd, many of whom had gathered specifically to hear him speak.

Part of a Larger Nationwide Campaign

The Hyderabad protest is part of a broader campaign launched by the Cockroach Janata Party, which has been organising demonstrations in different cities across the country. The campaign seeks to highlight what organisers describe as pressing challenges in the education sector.

At Dharna Chowk, protesters demanded the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, alleging that several education-related issues have not been handled effectively. They also called for greater dialogue between policymakers, students, teachers, and educational institutions before major reforms are introduced.

Peaceful Demonstration Under Police Watch

Police personnel were deployed around Dharna Chowk to maintain law and order during the event. The demonstration remained peaceful throughout the morning, with no reports of untoward incidents.

Dharna Chowk has long served as Hyderabad's designated venue for public protests and civic demonstrations. Sunday's turnout reflected the growing engagement of students and activists on matters related to education and governance.

More Protests Likely in the Coming Days

Activists involved in the campaign said that the Hyderabad gathering is only one part of a wider movement. They indicated that similar protests and public meetings could be organised in other cities if their demands remain unanswered.

With Sonam Wangchuk lending his support to the cause, the demonstration gained greater visibility and renewed focus on the ongoing debate over education reforms and student participation in policymaking.