Ladakh Activist Sonam Wangchuk Released After 36 Hours
Ladakh climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, who was detained for nearly 36 hours as his ‘Delhi Chalo Padyatra’ approached the national capital, has been released. The Union Home Ministry has assured Wangchuk of a meeting with either Prime Minister Narendra Modi or President Droupadi Murmu soon to discuss the concerns of Ladakh and its people.
Detention During March to Delhi
Wangchuk, accompanied by a group of supporters from Leh, was detained as they reached the border of Delhi during their march aimed at raising awareness about environmental conservation and Ladakh’s political status. “We faced some difficulties upon arriving in Delhi due to the detention, but everything happens for a reason. Our message of environmental conservation reached more people,” said Wangchuk after his release.
Demands for Ladakh’s Protection and Statehood
Wangchuk and his supporters have presented a memorandum to the government, urging constitutional protection for Ladakh to safeguard the Himalayas and the region’s unique cultural and ecological identity. The march, which began on September 1, was launched to push the Central government into resuming discussions with Ladakh’s leadership.
The group’s demands include statehood for Ladakh, inclusion under the Constitution’s Sixth Schedule to protect the rights of indigenous communities, a dedicated public service commission with an accelerated recruitment process, and separate Lok Sabha seats for Leh and Kargil.
Assurances of a Meeting with Top Leadership
“For Ladakh, Schedule 6 of the Indian Constitution offers protection to tribal and local people, granting them authority over the management and governance of the region. I have been assured by the home ministry that in the coming days, I will meet with India’s highest leadership—the Prime Minister, President, or home minister. I have called for the restoration of democracy through statehood and the implementation of Schedule 6,” Wangchuk stated.
Ongoing Efforts for Ladakh’s Autonomy
Wangchuk’s activism has drawn attention to the need for greater political representation and autonomy for Ladakh. The region has been demanding greater safeguards under the Indian Constitution to preserve its unique identity, ensure environmental conservation, and promote sustainable development.
With the promise of a meeting with top leaders, Wangchuk hopes that the concerns of Ladakh’s residents will be addressed and that tangible steps will be taken to grant the region the constitutional protections it seeks. The outcome of this engagement will be closely watched by Ladakhis and environmental activists alike.
