Ladakh Activist Sonam Wangchuk’s Hunger Strike
Sonam Wangchuk, a well-known activist from Ladakh, has started an indefinite hunger strike to highlight the region’s demand for statehood and inclusion in the Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution. The hunger strike began at Ladakh Bhavan after Wangchuk and his team were denied a suitable location for their peaceful protest.
Seeking Dialogue with Leaders
Wangchuk’s main goal is to meet with India’s top leaders to discuss the concerns of the Ladakh people. Despite previous promises, no meeting dates have been set, prompting him to resume his hunger strike after a brief pause at Rajghat. He emphasizes that he is not seeking support but welcomes those who understand the struggles faced by Ladakh and India.
Detention and Satyagraha
Wangchuk and about 150 supporters were detained by Delhi Police at the Delhi-Haryana border due to alleged violations of prohibitory orders. During their detention, they engaged in Satyagraha, inspired by Mahatma Gandhi, demanding a meeting with top leaders. Authorities have assured that a meeting will happen soon.
Advocating for Constitutional Safeguards
Wangchuk and his supporters are advocating for constitutional safeguards for Ladakh, seeking inclusion in the Sixth Schedule to empower the local population to protect their land and cultural identity. This demand is supported by the Leh Apex Body and Kargil Democratic Alliance.
Doubts Revealed
Ladakh -: Ladakh is a region in the northern part of India, known for its beautiful mountains and unique culture. It used to be part of the state of Jammu and Kashmir but is now a separate Union Territory.
Sonam Wangchuk -: Sonam Wangchuk is an engineer and education reformer from Ladakh. He is known for his innovative ideas and efforts to improve education and the environment in the region.
Hunger Strike -: A hunger strike is a form of protest where a person refuses to eat to show their strong disagreement with something. It is a peaceful way to demand change or attention to an issue.
Statehood -: Statehood means becoming a state in India, which gives a region more power to govern itself. Ladakh is currently a Union Territory, which means it is directly governed by the central government.
Sixth Schedule -: The Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution provides special rights and protections to certain regions, mainly to preserve their culture and land. It is meant for areas with unique tribal populations.
Ladakh Bhavan -: Ladakh Bhavan is a building or place where people from Ladakh can gather, often located in major cities like Delhi. It serves as a hub for cultural and administrative activities related to Ladakh.
Satyagraha -: Satyagraha is a form of non-violent protest or resistance, popularized by Mahatma Gandhi. It involves peacefully standing up for one’s rights and beliefs without using violence.
Prohibitory Orders -: Prohibitory orders are rules set by the government to prevent gatherings or protests in certain areas. They are often used to maintain peace and order.
