Didn’t feel like watching R-Day parade for 1st time: Wangchuk’s wife
As India celebrated its 74th Republic Day on January 26, a sense of patriotism and national pride filled the air. However, for Gitanjali, the wife of renowned educator and innovator Sonam Wangchuk, this year’s celebrations were different. In a heartfelt and introspective post, Gitanjali revealed that she didn’t feel motivated to watch the Republic Day parade for the first time, a tradition she had never missed before.
Gitanjali’s statement comes at a time when her husband, Sonam Wangchuk, has been languishing in Jodhpur jail since September 2025. Wangchuk, known for his innovative approaches to education and his efforts to promote sustainable development in Ladakh, was detained under the National Security Act (NSA) for allegedly posing a threat to national security. The charges against him have been widely disputed, and his detention has sparked widespread outrage and concern among his supporters and the broader civil society.
Gitanjali’s feelings of disillusionment and disconnection from the Republic Day celebrations are understandable, given the circumstances. As she expressed, “It’s sad, but I don’t know how much to feel proud of what’s showcased anymore! What to believe and what not to!” Her words reflect a deep sense of uncertainty and mistrust, which is not only personal but also reflective of the larger societal mood.
The Republic Day parade is an annual event that showcases India’s military prowess, cultural diversity, and national achievements. It is a celebration of the country’s democratic values and its commitment to the principles of justice, equality, and freedom. However, for Gitanjali and many others like her, the parade has lost its significance and meaning in the face of growing authoritarianism, erosion of civil liberties, and the increasing marginalization of dissenting voices.
The detention of Sonam Wangchuk and other prominent activists, intellectuals, and journalists has raised serious concerns about the state of democracy in India. The use of draconian laws like the NSA and the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) to silence critics and opponents has created a climate of fear and intimidation, where people are hesitant to speak out against injustice and oppression.
In this context, Gitanjali’s decision not to watch the Republic Day parade is a powerful statement of protest and resistance. It is a reminder that the true spirit of patriotism and nationalism lies not in blind loyalty to the state, but in the courage to question, critique, and challenge the powers that be. As she so eloquently put it, “What to believe and what not to!” is a question that haunts many Indians today, as they struggle to make sense of the changing landscape of their country.
The story of Sonam Wangchuk and his wife Gitanjali is a testament to the human cost of political repression and the impact it has on families and communities. It is a reminder that the struggle for justice, freedom, and democracy is not just a political or ideological issue, but a deeply personal and emotional one.
As we reflect on the significance of Republic Day and the values that it represents, we must also acknowledge the challenges and contradictions that India faces today. We must recognize the struggles of individuals like Sonam Wangchuk and Gitanjali, who are fighting for their rights, their freedom, and their dignity. We must stand in solidarity with them and demand that the government uphold the principles of justice, equality, and freedom that are enshrined in the Constitution.
In conclusion, Gitanjali’s decision not to watch the Republic Day parade is a powerful statement of protest and resistance. It is a reminder that the true spirit of patriotism and nationalism lies not in blind loyalty to the state, but in the courage to question, critique, and challenge the powers that be. As we celebrate the Republic Day, we must also remember the struggles of individuals like Sonam Wangchuk and Gitanjali, who are fighting for their rights, their freedom, and their dignity.
News Source: https://x.com/GitanjaliAngmo/status/2015790605637747092
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