Renowned Ladakh-based environmentalist and innovator, Sonam Wangchuk, has expressed deep frustration over the delay in a promised meeting with political leaders. Speaking in Delhi, Wangchuk revealed that despite assurances from the Home Ministry, no concrete action has been taken.
“We were told that our meeting would be scheduled with the leaders,” Wangchuk said, highlighting that the government had promised discussions to address the pressing issues faced by Ladakh. “But nothing has happened yet. We have come on foot from Leh, hoping for a resolution, but we are yet to receive any solid assurance from our leaders.”
Wangchuk, who is known for his pioneering work in education and environmental conservation in the cold desert region, emphasized the seriousness of their demands, which include safeguarding Ladakh’s fragile environment, addressing local concerns, and ensuring political representation. Ladakh has been seeking constitutional safeguards following its bifurcation from the state of Jammu and Kashmir in 2019 and the subsequent reorganization of the region into a Union Territory.
In a bold move to underline the urgency of the situation, Wangchuk has decided to begin a hunger strike. “We will be here on hunger strike until we hear something definitive from the leadership,” he stated, expressing his hope that this non-violent method of protest will bring attention to the critical issues affecting Ladakh and its people.
The protest is gaining traction, with Ladakh’s civil society and various groups extending their support to Wangchuk. Many have voiced concerns about the lack of dialogue on critical matters, including environmental preservation, development, and local governance in the region.
Wangchuk’s hunger strike comes as a reminder of the mounting frustrations within Ladakh, which has long been demanding adequate representation and protection for its unique ecosystem. The activist hopes that this protest will push the government to take meaningful steps towards addressing the region’s needs.
As Wangchuk and his supporters continue their peaceful protest in Delhi, all eyes are on the government’s response to their demands.
