New Delhi: Sonam Wangchuk, a prominent climate activist, along with his supporters, has been on an indefinite hunger strike for seven days in Delhi, demanding greater rights and autonomy for the people of Ladakh in the region of Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir. The protest, which began last Sunday, is staged at the entrance of Ladakh Bhawan.
According to Kashmir Media Service, Wangchuk and his group have made Ladakh Bhawan their protest site since the onset of their strike. In a recent appeal via Instagram, Wangchuk invited his followers to join the cause by participating in a day-long fast this upcoming Sunday. He acknowledged the significant support received from visitors and online followers who have expressed solidarity with their movement.
The activist’s group embarked on a march from Leh to Delhi, advocating for Ladakh’s inclusion in the Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution, which they believe will ensure greater self-governance and autonomy for the region. However, their journey was briefly halted by police at Delhi’s Singhu border on September 30, resulting in their detention until the night of October 2.
Their demands include not only constitutional recognition but also the establishment of statehood for Ladakh, creation of a public service commission, and the allocation of separate Lok Sabha (parliamentary) seats for the Leh and Kargil districts. These actions, they argue, are essential for maintaining Ladakh’s unique cultural identity and providing its residents with necessary governance tools.
The ongoing movement is orchestrated by the Leh Apex Body and the Kargil Democratic Alliance, both key organizations in the struggle for Ladakhi rights. As the hunger strike continues, the urgency and resonance of their call for action are gaining attention, highlighting the critical issues facing Ladakh and its people.