AISA Members Detained During Protest in Delhi
On October 20, members of the All India Students Association (AISA) were detained by Delhi Police while protesting outside Ladakh Bhawan. They were supporting climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, who is advocating for Ladakh’s inclusion in the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution.
Sonam Wangchuk’s Hunger Strike
Sonam Wangchuk began an indefinite hunger strike on October 5 to highlight the demands for statehood and constitutional safeguards for Ladakh. These demands aim to empower the local population to protect their land and cultural identity. The Leh Apex Body (LAB) and the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA) support these demands.
Legal Proceedings
On October 9, the Delhi High Court issued a notice to the Delhi Police and other respondents regarding a plea by the Leh Apex Body. The plea sought permission for Wangchuk and others to hold a peaceful protest at Jantar Mantar from October 8 to October 23, 2024. The court has scheduled a detailed hearing for October 22, 2024.
Opposition to the Protest
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing the Delhi Police, opposed the plea, questioning the urgency of the protest. The Leh Apex Body argued that peaceful assembly and free speech are fundamental rights under the Constitution, requesting permission for a peaceful protest.
Doubts Revealed
AISA -: AISA stands for All India Students Association. It is a student organization in India that often participates in protests and campaigns for various social and political issues.
Sonam Wangchuk -: Sonam Wangchuk is an Indian engineer and innovator from Ladakh. He is known for his work in education reform and sustainable development in the region.
Ladakh Bhawan -: Ladakh Bhawan is a government building in Delhi that represents the interests of the Ladakh region. It is a place where officials and representatives from Ladakh work and meet.
Sixth Schedule -: The Sixth Schedule is a part of the Indian Constitution that provides special provisions for the administration of tribal areas in certain northeastern states. Sonam Wangchuk is demanding similar status for Ladakh to protect its culture and resources.
Leh Apex Body -: The Leh Apex Body is a group of leaders and organizations in Leh, Ladakh, that work together to address regional issues and represent the interests of the people of Leh.
Kargil Democratic Alliance -: The Kargil Democratic Alliance is a coalition of political and social groups in Kargil, Ladakh. They work to promote the rights and development of the Kargil region.
Delhi High Court -: The Delhi High Court is a court in India that deals with legal cases and issues in the Delhi region. It is one of the highest courts in the country.
Jantar Mantar -: Jantar Mantar is a historical site in Delhi that is often used as a venue for protests and demonstrations. It is a popular place for people to gather and express their views.
Solicitor General -: The Solicitor General is a legal officer who represents the government in court cases. Tushar Mehta is the current Solicitor General of India.