In response to Congress MP Imran Masood’s allegations regarding climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, BJP national spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla has voiced strong criticisms of the opposition party. Masood had accused Wangchuk of having an unreported agreement with the government, which followed Wangchuk’s conclusion of a hunger strike. Poonawalla has called the Congress party’s actions as “stooping low” in what he claims is a bid for political credit.

Poonawalla specifically directed his comments towards Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, accusing him of evading discussions regarding the demands put forth by Wangchuk. He indicated that while the Union government was engaged in constructive dialogue with protesters, Congress members have resorted to disrespectful remarks regarding Wangchuk’s activism.

In a video message, Poonawalla highlighted Gandhi’s absence during an important 21-day period, during which he did not attend Wangchuk’s protests nor offer his support at Jantar Mantar. Instead, he lauded the government’s efforts in successfully negotiating a resolution that allowed Wangchuk to end his hunger strike, claiming it was met with widespread approval across the nation.

Details of Poonawalla’s Criticism

Poonawalla elaborated further on his accusations, suggesting that Rahul Gandhi systematically avoids discussing Wangchuk’s parliamentary requests. He stated that instead of engaging in substantive dialogue, Gandhi has allegedly instructed his followers, including Imran Masood, to issue disparaging comments about Wangchuk.

During his statements, Masood reportedly referred to Wangchuk as a ‘deal-maker’ and made comparisons intended to undermine both Wangchuk and social activist Anna Hazare. Poonawalla accused Masood of using derogatory language, claiming that such actions reflected poorly on Congress’s integrity and relationship with public figures advocating for essential social issues.

Moreover, Poonawalla called attention to the silence from specific civil society organisations regarding these remarks. He specifically mentioned the Citizens for Justice and Peace (CJP) and individual Abhijeet Dipke, questioning their stance on the negative comments directed towards Wangchuk. His inquiry aimed to highlight what he perceived as a lack of support for activists like Wangchuk, insinuating that these groups were partially complicit by their inaction.

Allegations of Motivations Behind Congress Actions

Poonawalla accused the opposition parties of prioritising their egos and the pursuit of credit over genuine concern for the issues at hand. He asserted that this behaviour is evident not only in Congress but also among other parties like the Aam Aadmi Party and the Samajwadi Party.

He cited statements from Wangchuk’s wife, suggesting that she too finds Congress’s approach insincere. This, he claimed, exposes the party’s unwillingness to support students and activists who advocate for significant causes, instead focusing solely on political gains.

Highlighting recent comments made by the Prime Minister regarding fast-track courts and stringent regulations aimed at educational integrity, Poonawalla suggested that these were in direct contrast to the Congress party’s historical actions. He concluded that the current actions of Congress and allied parties illustrate a disconnect from the needs of students and the larger public, casting doubt on their commitment to meaningful reforms.

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