Actor Swara Bhasker has expressed that many in the Hindi film industry are avoiding support for Sonam Wangchuk’s ongoing protest due to apprehension of retaliation. Speaking at Jantar Mantar in Delhi, where she visited the climate activist and education reformer, Swara highlighted that the reluctance to engage stems from a fear sparked by the consequences faced by those who have previously voiced criticism of the government.

This commentary comes as Wangchuk’s indefinite hunger strike, which commenced on June 28, has reached its 20th day amidst increasing concerns for his well-being. Wangchuk is demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan due to alleged irregularities in competitive examinations, including a leaked NEET paper, and insists upon broader reforms in the examination system.

During her interaction, Swara was questioned about the apparent absence of Bollywood voices supporting the protest, particularly in light of the backing some celebrities provided to movements like Anna Hazare’s anti-corruption campaign in 2011. Swara remarked that many celebrities are aware of the potential fallout from taking a stand and are consequently choosing to remain silent.

Comparison to Previous Political Climate

Swara drew comparisons between the current political atmosphere and the environment during the Anna Hazare movement, noting that the situation faced by activists has markedly changed over the years. She articulated that the government in 2011, albeit flawed, did not resort to detaining activists and students without cause or bail for extended periods.

Referencing the case of tribal rights activist Stan Swamy, who passed away in custody in 2021, Swara lamented the current government’s approach. “This is the kind of government under which 84-year-old Father Stan Swamy died in jail,” she stated, emphasising the gravity of the situation. She critiqued the government’s reaction to protests, describing it as ‘stripped bare by its arrogance and shamelessness.’

While she refrained from casting judgement on her colleagues in the film industry, Swara urged the public to not wait for celebrity validation for social causes. She emphasised that the importance of a cause stands independently of celebrity endorsement, asserting, “A cause does not become important because a celebrity supports it; it is important in its own right.”

Personal Connection to the Cause

Swara conveyed that her presence at the protest was motivated by personal reasons, stating that the issues at stake also concern the future of her daughter. She expressed her desire to ensure her child grows up in India with the same opportunities she herself enjoyed, rather than having to relocate abroad due to socioeconomic challenges.

“This protest is about my daughter’s future too. I don’t want to be forced to leave the country and move to Dubai on a Golden Visa. I want my daughter to grow up and study in this country,” she said, connecting the importance of the protest to her family’s future.

Swara is one of several film personalities who have expressed solidarity with Wangchuk or publicly supported his demands. Others, including Shabana Azmi, Naseeruddin Shah, and Sonakshi Sinha, have urged the government to engage in dialogue with Wangchuk or requested him to reconsider his hunger strike.

As Wangchuk remains firm in his protest, a recent medical report indicates he has lost over 9 kg and is approaching a critical phase of extended fasting. Medical professionals have cautioned that continued fasting may adversely affect his organs. The Delhi High Court has directed authorities to monitor his health daily and ensure he receives medical assistance as necessary.

Long or Short, get news the way you like. No ads. No redirections. Download Newspin and Stay Alert, The CSR Journal Mobile app, for fast, crisp, clean updates!

App Store –  https://apps.apple.com/in/app/newspin/id6746449540 

Google Play Store – https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.inventifweb.newspin&pcampaignid=web_share