16 July,2026 03:45 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray. Pic/X
Shiv Sena (UBT) has announced that it will organise a public gathering at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Park in Dadar on Saturday, July 19, to express solidarity with climate activist Sonam Wangchuk and students protesting alleged irregularities in competitive examinations.
The event is scheduled to begin at 4 pm near the Maasaheb Meenatai Thackeray statue inside the park. According to the party, the gathering aims to raise concerns over examination-related issues and demonstrate support for students seeking greater transparency and accountability in the country's recruitment and examination system.
Announcing the programme, Shiv Sena (UBT) appealed to the public to participate in the event.
"Let us unite to support Sonam Wangchuk, who is fighting for the questions of the youth across the country, and Abhijit Dibke and all the young people, to hold the ruthless BJP government accountable! On 19 July, Sunday, at Shiv Tirth, let us meet at 4 o'clock near the statue of Maasaheb Meenatai Thackeray!," the party said.
It also stated, "This fight belongs to everyone, not just one political party! Let us all gather, let us become the voice of the country's youth!"
The announcement comes as Sonam Wangchuk continues his indefinite hunger strike at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi. He joined the ongoing protest on June 28, extending his support to demonstrators demanding accountability over alleged irregularities in competitive examinations.
The protest has focused on issues related to national-level entrance examinations, including allegations surrounding the NEET examination. Protesters have sought greater accountability from the Union Education Ministry and the National Testing Agency (NTA), while calling for reforms to improve transparency in the examination process.
Wangchuk's participation has attracted support from several opposition leaders, student organisations and civil society groups.
Concerns over Wangchuk's health have grown as his hunger strike has continued for several weeks.
The Delhi High Court recently directed authorities to ensure daily medical monitoring of the activist after a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) raised concerns about his deteriorating health.
During the hearing, petitioner Rakesh Kumar Saini sought judicial intervention, stating that Wangchuk's prolonged fast had adversely affected his health and that continuous medical supervision was necessary.
The Centre and the Delhi government informed the court that government doctors were already conducting regular medical examinations. Recording the assurance, the High Court directed that Wangchuk's health continue to be monitored daily and that any medical treatment required be provided without delay.
The demonstrations at Jantar Mantar have continued to receive support from student groups, activists and political leaders seeking reforms in the country's examination and recruitment system.
As part of the next phase of the campaign, organisers have announced a march to Parliament on July 20 to press for their demands.
