Filmmaker Pa Ranjith has come out in support of educator and activist Sonam Wangchuk, who was recently hospitalized during his 21-day hunger strike at Jantar Mantar in Delhi. The director took to social media to express his solidarity with Wangchuk and the protesters demanding accountability over the alleged NEET papers leak issue.
His post has since attracted widespread attention, with many praising him for speaking out on an issue that has concerned students and activists across the country.
Pa Ranjith shares a powerful message on Sonam Wangchuk’s protest
Sharing his views on social media, Pa Ranjith wrote: “In solidarity with #SonamWangchuk, #CockroachJantaParty and every protester at #JantarMantar, condemnation of state interference in peaceful protest at Jantar Mantar.
The use of force against protesters, the detention of supporters, and the decision to hospitalize innovator and activist Sonam Wangchuk during his 21-day hunger strike are deeply concerning.
Sonam Wangchuk’s struggle reflects the anger, anxiety and uncertainty that millions of young people across the country have had to endure. Repeated allegations of leaked papers, failures in the examination system, and lack of accountability have put the dreams and futures of countless students at stake.
Instead of responding to these concerns, the government chose to suppress peaceful democratic opposition. With the nation’s future at stake, the Union Education Minister and the BJP-led Union government have a responsibility to respond with accountability, not force. Unwavering solidarity with all those participating in the #ChaloSansad march in Delhi tomorrow. “The peaceful demand for accountability deserves to be heard, not silenced.”
Director calls for accountability for use of force against demonstrators
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 suppressing the demonstrations. His comments were interpreted as reflecting growing frustrations over recurring exam scandals, and stressed the need for accountability to protect young people’s futures. The post went viral on social media, with many echoing similar concerns and supporting the protesters.
Pa Ranjith continues to raise his voice outside the cinema
Pa Ranjith is a filmmaker, but he has also been vocal about his views on social justice, education and equality in his films and public forums. The director has directed films like ‘Madras’, ‘Kabali’, ‘Kaala’, ‘Sarpatta Parambarai’ and ‘Thangalaan’, all of which dealt with strong social issues. Once again, his latest statement shows his willingness to talk about issues other than cinema and use his voice to raise public issues.
