Sonam Wangchuk calls for India’s ‘Second Independence Movement’ to reform political system

Scientist, innovator and social activist Sonam Wangchuk has called for what he describes as India’s “Second Independence Movement,” urging citizens across the country to work towards reforming the political system and improving the way leaders are chosen. Through a post shared on social media platform X on Thursday, Wangchuk appealed for a peaceful and constructive revolution that could help India become a stronger, more respected nation by the time it celebrates 100 years of Independence in 2047.

The Ladakh-based activist said that while India has made significant progress since gaining independence in 1947, the country now faces challenges related to governance, public trust and political accountability. According to Wangchuk, meaningful reforms are needed to ensure that the nation’s democratic institutions remain strong and credible in the decades ahead.

Highlighting concerns about the criminalization of politics, Wangchuk pointed to data showing that a significant number of elected representatives face criminal charges. He noted that nearly half of the Members of Parliament have criminal cases registered against them, while a considerable number face serious allegations, including charges related to violent crimes. He argued that such trends contribute to a growing trust deficit between citizens and political institutions.

Wangchuk said he intends to consult some of India’s most respected thinkers, experts and professionals to discuss what changes are necessary and how they can be implemented. However, he emphasized that the movement should not be limited to intellectual circles alone. Instead, he called for active participation from ordinary citizens and asked people to recommend individuals known for their integrity, courage and commitment to public service.

Seeking public involvement, Wangchuk encouraged citizens to identify at least one “selfless and fearless” person from their own region as well as from elsewhere in India who could contribute meaningfully to discussions on political reform. He described the initiative as a collective national effort aimed at strengthening democracy and improving leadership standards.

The activist framed the proposal as a long-term mission rather than a political campaign, stressing that the goal is to rethink how leaders emerge and how public trust can be restored in democratic processes. His remarks have sparked discussions online about governance reforms, electoral accountability and citizen participation in public life.

Meanwhile, Wangchuk has also continued to support student-led movements across the country. Recently, he extended support to student leader Devendra Nath Mahato, who is on an indefinite hunger strike in Ranchi over alleged irregularities in recruitment and competitive examinations conducted by various state agencies. Following their conversation, Mahato agreed to consume water and salt while continuing his protest.

Wangchuk’s involvement in student movements comes after he became a prominent face of protests demanding transparency and accountability in examination systems. Earlier this year, he participated in demonstrations at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar and undertook a hunger strike to highlight concerns related to examination irregularities and youth aspirations.

With his latest call for a “Second Independence Movement,” Wangchuk has broadened his focus from specific issues to a larger debate on political reform, governance and the future direction of Indian democracy as the country approaches its centenary year of independence.