JAMMU, Jul 15: Human Rights Activist Om Parkash Khajuria has expressed deep concern over reports regarding the deteriorating health of renowned environmentalist, education reformer and social activist Sonam Wangchuk, urging the Government of India to initiate immediate and meaningful dialogue to safeguard his life and uphold the democratic values enshrined in the Constitution.
In a statement issued here on Wednesday, Khajuria said that every human life is invaluable and that the health and well-being of any citizen advocating through peaceful and democratic means should remain a matter of national concern. He stressed that in a vibrant democracy, the strength of institutions is reflected not only through governance but also through their willingness to engage with peaceful voices of dissent.
Appealing to the Union Government to act with urgency and compassion, Khajuria said that constructive dialogue with Sonam Wangchuk and his representatives would be the most appropriate and democratic course of action. He observed that meaningful engagement, rather than prolonged confrontation or silence, has always been the hallmark of a mature and confident democracy.
Khajuria also urged the Government of India to immediately depute a high-level delegation or authorised representatives to meet Sonam Wangchuk personally, initiate sincere discussions and persuade him to end his fast in the larger interest of protecting his health and life. He said such a humanitarian initiative would reflect the government’s commitment to democratic values, compassion and peaceful resolution of differences.
Khajuria noted that throughout his public life, Sonam Wangchuk has consistently advocated peaceful methods of social change and has remained committed to the principles of truth, non-violence and constitutional values. Whether people agree or disagree with his demands, he said, every citizen expressing concerns through lawful and peaceful means deserves to be heard with respect and sensitivity.
“The preservation of human life must remain the highest priority. No democratic nation should allow differences of opinion to reach a stage where the health and life of a peaceful activist are placed at serious risk,” Khajuria said. He added that every passing day without constructive dialogue only deepens public concern and weakens the spirit of democratic participation.
Emphasising the constitutional framework of the country, Khajuria said that the Constitution of India guarantees every citizen the right to express views peacefully and seek redress through lawful and democratic means. Governments, he said, become stronger—not weaker—when they respond to such voices with empathy, openness and reasoned discussion.
Describing the issue as one that goes beyond an individual, Khajuria said it represents an important test of the nation’s commitment to democratic values, justice, compassion and constitutional governance. The manner in which a democracy responds to peaceful dissent, he added, reflects the confidence and maturity of its institutions.Khajuria appealed to the Government of India to initiate an immediate and sincere dialogue with Sonam Wangchuk in the larger interest of protecting human life and reinforcing public faith in democratic institutions and the rule of law.
He also appealed to responsible citizens, civil society organisations, academicians, students, environmentalists and human rights defenders across the country to support the call for peaceful dialogue and the protection of human life. He urged all sections of society to rise above political differences and unite in the belief that dialogue remains the most constructive path towards resolving differences in a democratic society.”Let dialogue prevail over deadlock. Let humanity triumph over indifference. Every human life is precious, and every effort must be made to ensure that peaceful democratic engagement remains the foundation of our Republic,” Khajuria said.