As discussions surrounding Sonam Wangchuk‘s ongoing hunger strike continue to dominate public discourse, actor-comedian Vir Das has weighed in on a broader issue without directly naming the activist or referring to any particular protest. Through a lengthy Instagram post, the ‘Delhi Belly’ actor challenged the idea of being “apolitical,” arguing that remaining silent on issues affecting society is a conscious decision rather than a political stance.
Silence is not the same as neutrality
In his post, Das questioned the common argument that people either lack the privilege to speak up or prefer to stay away from politics altogether. “I don’t have the privilege to speak up, or I am apolitical is about the most bizarre argument I’ve ever heard,” he wrote.The actor went on to point out that those who have consistently raised their voices on public issues often have significantly less privilege and far more at stake than celebrities or individuals with large online platforms.“Firstly the people speaking up, for decades, and today, on ANY issue…. the loudest, have way way way less privilege and more to lose than you and me on this platform. So let’s get that out of the way,” he said.
Democracy requires holding power accountable
Vir Das also reflected on the role citizens play in a democracy, suggesting that people should be willing to question those they elect rather than remain passive observers.“Secondly you are supposed to be politically brutal, ESPECIALLY with those you voted for,” he wrote.According to the actor, public policy influences almost every aspect of daily life, making it difficult to completely separate oneself from politics. “If you have women in your family, kids, pets, students, a car, breathe-air, use roads, drink water, and you’re still silent in all of their faces… THAT’S privilege.”Concluding his message, Das argued that avoiding uncomfortable conversations should not be confused with being politically neutral. “Maybe you’re not apolitical, you’re just comfortable. Which is fine. Just stop pretending like avoiding discomfort is an ideology. It’s a choice,” he wrote.
Post comes amid growing debate over Sonam Wangchuk’s protest
Although Vir Das did not mention Sonam Wangchuk by name, his remarks arrived as the climate activist’s hunger strike continues to generate widespread discussion. With the protest entering its 19th day, several personalities from the entertainment industry have appealed to Wangchuk to end his fast, while others have urged the government to initiate dialogue with him.Against this backdrop, Das’s comments have added to the larger conversation around civic responsibility, democratic participation and whether influential public figures should speak out on issues they consider important.
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