Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk on Saturday, 25 July called on the Centre to pursue sweeping reforms in both the education system and governance, hours after Dharmendra Pradhan resigned as Union Education Minister amid widespread student protests. Speaking to reporters in Gurugram, Wangchuk welcomed the resignation but made clear that a single ministerial exit was insufficient for meaningful nation-building.

Wangchuk's Reaction to Pradhan's Resignation

Wangchuk described the development as a democratic milestone. “I congratulate all my fellow countrymen — this is a victory for democracy that we witnessed today,” he said, urging young Indians to continue to ‘safeguard democracy’ going forward.

He also extended specific thanks to those who drove the agitation. “I want to congratulate the youth of the country and thank our Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) team and brothers and sisters who raised this issue first, as well as the volunteers who supported them. I honour all the students, youth, and elders from across the country who stood up for democracy — and most importantly, the way they maintained peace where these protests were taking place,” Wangchuk said.

A Call for Peace and Humility

While welcoming the outcome, Wangchuk acknowledged that certain incidents of violence had occurred during the agitation. He appealed to all protesters to maintain calm. “I hope that this peace is maintained and no untoward incident takes place anywhere,” he said, stressing that the power of the movement stemmed from its peaceful character. “There can be no weapon against peace — please continue to maintain that,” he added.

He also urged agitators to exercise ‘humility following the movement’s victory,’ calling it a reflection of one’s character.

The Push for Systemic Reform

Wangchuk was emphatic that the resignation must be a starting point, not an endpoint. “While we have received a response, now focus should be on educational reforms as nation-building cannot take place with just one resignation,” he said.

He expressed confidence that the Union government would follow through. “I have full faith that the way the Union government took this decision, it will also work towards reforms — not only in the education system but also in governance. I hope that from now on, there will be a change in the method of governing the country,” he added.

Vision for a New India

Wangchuk struck an optimistic note on the country’s broader trajectory, expressing hope that ‘instead of fear, the country will now be run with love and affection and in the path of truth.’ He also voiced confidence that corruption in all forms would be abolished, and that India would emerge as a genuine Vishwaguru — a moral and intellectual leader for the world. “I hope that this is the beginning of a new India,” he said.

Wangchuk’s remarks signal that the student-led movement, while claiming a significant scalp, is far from over — with reformers now training their sights on deeper structural change in education policy and governance.