Television actress Devoleena Bhattacharjee on Monday, 21 July voiced strong support for climate activist Sonam Wangchuk while cautioning that his ongoing protest movement appears to be losing its original focus. The actress shared her concerns on social media after a video surfaced allegedly showing a young man at the protest claiming that youth would now 'sit in Parliament and make decisions' and that older people were no longer needed.

What Devoleena Said

In a lengthy note, Devoleena wrote, 'This is the problem. The issue being discussed is one thing, but the agenda now seems to be something entirely different. Mr. Wangchuk @Wangchuk66, you have my wholehearted support for your cause. However, it appears that the movement is beginning to lose focus. And if the issue gets derailed, it will ultimately undermine the very purpose of your hunger strike. Sadly, that would be done by your own supporters.'

She also cautioned against what she described as attempts to exploit student sentiment. 'This is not Nepal, or any other country where external funding or support, combined with emotionally manipulating students in the name of their future, can be used to push a different agenda. In fact, pursuing that path will only weaken the original cause and may even cause it to lose public support,' she added.

Appeal to Students

Devoleena directed a pointed message at students participating in the protest, urging them to act with caution. 'Please do not get involved in anything that could put your future at risk. Remember, even a single FIR can have lifelong consequences and affect your career and dreams. The leaders of such movements may move on. Many protesters may have little to lose... But students who genuinely wish to raise their voices for education or other legitimate concerns have everything to lose. Please think carefully before participating in protests that are no longer aligned with the original issue. Protect your future,' she wrote.

Message to the Government

The actress also addressed the government directly, writing, 'It is your fundamental responsibility to listen to your citizens and address their genuine concerns. Never forget that you are public servants, not dictators. Before this nation becomes another victim of ego and arrogance, I urge you to act with wisdom, humility, and responsibility.'

Background and Context

This is not the first time Devoleena has commented on the Sonam Wangchuk-backed movement. She had earlier shared a detailed post on the issue, establishing herself as a consistent voice on matters of national concern. The actress, widely recognised for her role as Gopi in the long-running television series Saath Nibhaana Saathiya, has frequently used her social media platform to weigh in on political and social developments. Notably, the protest in question reportedly turned chaotic on Monday, prompting a wave of public reactions from celebrities and commentators alike. Whether Devoleena's intervention will influence the trajectory of the movement — or the government's response — remains to be seen.