Filmmaker Pa Ranjith has supported the educationist and activist Sonam Wangchukwho was recently shifted to a hospital during his 21-day hunger strike at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar. The principal took to social media to express his solidarity with Wangchuk and the protesters demanding accountability for the alleged NEET paper leak issue. Since then, her post has garnered widespread attention, with many praising her for speaking out on an issue that has sparked concern among students and activists across the country.
Pa Ranjith shares a strong message on Sonam Wangchuk’s protest
Sharing his views on social media, Pa Ranjith wrote, “In solidarity with #SonamWangchuk, the #CockroachJantaParty and all protestors at #JantarMantar, condemn state intervention in peaceful protest at Jantar Mantar. The use of force against protesters, the arrest of those standing in solidarity, and the decision to transfer innovator and activist Sonam Wangchuk to a hospital during her 21-day hunger strike are deeply disturbing. Sonam Wangchuk’s struggle reflects the anger, anxiety and uncertainty that millions of young people across the country have been forced to endure. Repeated allegations of paper leaks, failures in the examination system and the absence of accountability have put the dreams and future of countless students at stake. Instead of responding to these concerns, the government has chosen to suppress peaceful democratic dissent. With the future of the nation at stake, the onus is on the Union Education Minister and the BJP-led Union Government to respond responsibly, not forcefully. Unwavering solidarity with all those taking part in the #ChaloSansad march in Delhi tomorrow. The peaceful demand for accountability deserves to be heard, not silenced.”
The director calls for accountability for the force against the protesters
Through his statement, Pa Ranjith criticized the handling of the peaceful protest and urged the authorities to address the concerns raised by the students instead of cracking down on the demonstrations. His comments were seen as an echo of growing frustrations around repeated exam scandals and emphasized the need for accountability to protect young people’s futures. The post has gone viral on social media, with many echoing similar concerns and supporting the protesters.
Pa Ranjith continues to raise his voice outside cinema
Pa Ranjith is a filmmaker, but has also spoken about his views on social justice, education and equality in his films and public forums. The director has made films like ‘Madras’, ‘Kabali’, ‘Kaala’, ‘Sarpatta Parambarai’ and ‘Thangalaan’ both of which have dealt with strong social themes. Once again, his latest statement shows his willingness to talk about issues other than film and to use his voice to raise public issues.