Renowned climate activist Sonam Wangchuk has announced plans for escalated agitation, culminating in a ‘border march’ slated for April 7 in the eastern part of the Union territory. The march aims to draw attention to pressing ground realities, including alleged encroachments by China and threats to the region’s indigenous character.
Wangchuk, a key figure in the Leh-based Apex body representing various social, religious, and political organizations, emphasized the adoption of a Gandhian approach in their protest, highlighting the imperative to safeguard Ladakh’s fragile environment and the indigenous identity of its populace.
“We are followers of (Mahatma) Gandhi’s Satyagraha. We demand the fulfillment of promises made by this government, which secured victories in parliamentary and hill council polls through its manifestos,” Wangchuk asserted during a gathering in Leh.
The activist recently concluded a 21-day hunger strike advocating for Ladakh’s statehood and its inclusion in the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution. He outlined plans for a chain hunger strike involving women, youths, religious leaders, and elders, following the initial phase of his protest.
Detailing the upcoming ‘border march’ to Changthang, Wangchuk likened it to Gandhi’s historic Dandi March, aiming to spotlight the realities faced by Ladakhis. Alleging encroachments and land loss, particularly in nomadic grazing areas, Wangchuk decried the impact of industrial projects and Chinese encroachments.
Amid accusations of the government’s failure to safeguard Ladakh’s interests, Wangchuk warned of further agitation, including a ‘jail bharo andolan’ and non-cooperation movements, if their demands are ignored. Expressing disappointment with the Union Home Ministry’s rejection of their demands on March 4, Wangchuk criticized the BJP for reneging on promises made to Ladakh’s people. Despite ongoing talks with the government, he expressed skepticism about the efficacy of future assurances without concrete action.
As the agitation for Ladakh’s statehood and inclusion in the Sixth Schedule gains momentum, Wangchuk reiterated his readiness to resume hunger strikes if necessary, underscoring the gravity of their struggle for Ladakh’s future.
The joint efforts of the Apex Body and Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA) signify a unified front in the pursuit of Ladakh’s aspirations, as they continue to engage in dialogue with the government while advocating for constitutional safeguards and autonomous governance.