Didn’t feel like watching R-Day parade for 1st time: Wangchuk’s wife
As the nation celebrated its 74th Republic Day with grandeur and pomp, a sense of disillusionment and disappointment seemed to have settled in the heart of Gitanjali, the wife of renowned engineer and innovator, Sonam Wangchuk. In a candid admission, Gitanjali revealed that she didn’t feel motivated to watch the Republic Day parade for the first time, a tradition she had diligently followed over the years.
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 pioneering work in sustainable development and education, was detained under the National Security Act, sparking widespread outrage and concern among his supporters and admirers. The circumstances surrounding his detention have been shrouded in controversy, with many questioning the motives behind his imprisonment.
Gitanjali’s feelings of disillusionment are palpable as she expressed her sense of sadness and confusion. “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!” she said, highlighting the growing sense of distrust and skepticism that has been eroding the foundations of our democracy. The pomp and grandeur of the Republic Day celebrations, which were once a source of pride and inspiration, now seem to ring hollow in the face of perceived injustices and blatant disregard for human rights.
The Republic Day parade, which is typically a showcase of India’s military might, cultural diversity, and technological advancements, has always been a spectacle that evokes feelings of patriotism and national pride. However, for Gitanjali, the excitement and enthusiasm that once accompanied this event have given way to a sense of despair and hopelessness. The fact that her husband, a man who has dedicated his life to the service of the nation, is languishing in jail, has made her question the very fabric of our democracy.
As the nation celebrates its Republic Day, it is essential to reflect on the values that our constitution embodies. The preamble to our constitution enshrines the principles of justice, equality, liberty, and fraternity, which are meant to guide our actions and decisions as a nation. However, the detention of Sonam Wangchuk and the subsequent sense of disillusionment that has gripped his family and supporters, raises uncomfortable questions about the state of our democracy.
The incident has also sparked a wider debate about the role of dissent and criticism in a democratic society. Wangchuk’s detention has been seen by many as an attempt to silence a vocal critic of the government, who has been advocating for the rights of the people of Ladakh and highlighting the need for sustainable development in the region. The fact that his wife, Gitanjali, is now questioning the very foundations of our democracy, highlights the far-reaching consequences of such actions.
As we celebrate our Republic Day, it is essential to remember that the true strength of our democracy lies not in its ability to showcase military might or cultural diversity, but in its ability to uphold the principles of justice, equality, and liberty. The fact that Gitanjali, a citizen who has always been proud of her nation, is now questioning the very foundations of our democracy, should serve as a wake-up call for all of us.
In conclusion, Gitanjali’s statement is a stark reminder of the growing sense of disillusionment and disappointment that is gripping our nation. As we celebrate our Republic Day, it is essential to reflect on the values that our constitution embodies and to ensure that we are upholding the principles of justice, equality, and liberty. The detention of Sonam Wangchuk and the subsequent sense of disillusionment that has gripped his family and supporters, highlights the need for a more nuanced and thoughtful approach to governance, one that prioritizes the rights and dignity of all citizens.
News Source: https://x.com/GitanjaliAngmo/status/2015790605637747092
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