Congress slams Centre over handling Wangchuk, exam issues; opposes Higher Education Bill
Congress leader K.C. Venugopal has criticized the BJP-led central government for its handling of Sonam Wangchuk’s hunger strike and alleged irregularities in national competitive exams. The opposition is demanding the resignation of the Union Education Minister and opposing the proposed Higher Education Bill.
Why it matters
The protest highlights growing public and political discontent regarding the integrity of national examination systems and government responsiveness.
AICC general secretary K.C. Venugopal on Monday (July 20, 2026) launched a sharp attack on the BJP-led Centre over its handling of activist Sonam Wangchuk’s hunger strike, alleged irregularities in competitive examinations and the proposed Higher Education Bill, stating that the country was being governed by its “most authoritarian” government.
Extending complete solidarity with Mr. Wangchuk’s indefinite hunger strike, Mr. Venugopal alleged that the Centre had ignored the concerns raised by the protesters and failed to engage with them despite the fast continuing for nearly three weeks.
His remarks came two days after Delhi Police shifted activist Mr. Wangchuk to Safdarjung Hospital from the Jantar Mantar protest site in New Delhi after his health deteriorated on the 21st day of his indefinite hunger strike, citing medical advice and directions of the Delhi High Court.
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