Ladakh Activist Sonam Wangchuk’s Hunger Strike for Ladakh’s Rights
Sonam Wangchuk, a well-known activist from Ladakh, has embarked on a significant journey to New Delhi, India. Despite promises from the Home Ministry for a meeting with leaders, no action has been taken. Wangchuk, who walked from Leh, is seeking assurances from leaders in the capital.
“The Home Ministry assured us that a meeting with the leaders would be arranged, but nothing has happened yet. We have come on foot from Leh and are hoping for some assurances from our leaders,” said Wangchuk. He is currently on a hunger strike, emphasizing the importance of meeting with leaders in the world’s largest democracy.
Wangchuk expressed concerns about the melting glaciers and global warming, attributing these issues to the lifestyles in major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Paris, and London. He criticized government plans to install power plants in the Himalayas, which could harm the livelihoods of local herdsmen.
On Sunday, Wangchuk began an indefinite hunger strike to advocate for Ladakh’s demand for statehood and inclusion in the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution. This move is supported by the Leh Apex Body (LAB) and the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA), who believe it will help protect Ladakh’s land and cultural identity.
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 to help the environment and education in the region.
Hunger Strike -: A hunger strike is when someone refuses to eat to protest or bring attention to an issue. It is a peaceful way to show that they are serious about their demands.
Home Ministry -: The Home Ministry is a part of the Indian government responsible for internal security and domestic policy. It deals with issues like law and order, and the administration of union territories like Ladakh.
Melting Glaciers -: Glaciers are large masses of ice found in cold regions. Melting glaciers mean that these ice masses are turning into water due to rising temperatures, which can affect water supply and the environment.
Sixth Schedule -: The Sixth Schedule is a part of the Indian Constitution that provides special rights and protections to certain regions, mainly to preserve their culture and land. It is meant for areas with unique cultural identities.
Leh Apex Body -: The Leh Apex Body is a group of leaders and organizations in Leh, a major town in Ladakh, working together to address the region’s issues and demands.
Kargil Democratic Alliance -: The Kargil Democratic Alliance is a coalition of political and social groups in Kargil, another important area in Ladakh, advocating for the rights and development of the region.
