Sonam Wangchuk, a climate activist leading a hunger strike in Ladakh, has made a fresh plea to Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi to fulfill promises made to the people of the region.
He is advocating for Ladakh’s statehood and its inclusion in the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution. The Sixth Schedule governs tribal areas in certain states.
Wangchuk, who has been fasting in sub-zero temperatures since March 6, urged Ladakhis to vote carefully in the upcoming elections, emphasizing the importance of their franchise for the nation’s welfare.
He highlighted the promises made by the BJP in its election manifestoes and called on Modi to adhere to the principle of ‘pran jaye par vachan na jaye’ (one may lose their life, but must not break their promise), invoking the teachings of Lord Ram.
Despite talks between Ladakh’s Apex Body and the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA) hitting a deadlock with the central government, Wangchuk’s ‘climate fast’ continued.
He stressed the need to protect Ladakh’s fragile ecosystem and unique indigenous tribal cultures.
Wangchuk’s appeal comes amidst growing concerns over the neglect of Ladakh’s issues by the government, despite the participation of around 60,000 residents in the hunger strike over the past 20 days.
He urged Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah to demonstrate leadership and foresight in addressing Ladakh’s concerns beyond mere politics.
