Achi news desk-
GUWAHATI: Noted climate activist Sonam Wangchuk persisted in his speed-to-death protest for the 13th consecutive day, advocating constitutional protection of Ladakh as a Union Territory and safeguarding its delicate ecosystem from industrial and mining interests.
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In a recent X post, Wangchuk expressed gratitude to the 250 people who were starving in freezing temperatures of -12 degrees Celsius, in a bid to remind the central government of its commitment to preserving Ladakh’s environment and indigenous tribal culture. He criticized the government and stated that while India is hailed as the ‘mother of democracy’, its reluctance to grant democratic rights to Ladakhis suggests otherwise.
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Wangchuck initiated his protest on March 6 in Ladakh, addressing a gathering at 3,500 meters above sea level. He outlined his protest strategy, organized in phases of 21 days each. Before the protest began, Wangchuck urged people to adopt a simpler lifestyle and urged the government to honor its commitment to include Ladakh in the Constitution’s Sixth Schedule and grant it statehood.
Despite promises from the government, Wangchuk indicated a change in its position, deviating from its previous promises. He questioned the logic behind this change, citing earlier references to the protection of Ladakh under the sixth plan in the BJP-led central government’s election manifesto.
The protest followed discussions between Ladakhi leaders and the Center regarding the statehood of Ladakh, the inclusion of the Sixth Plan and the establishment of a dedicated public service committee for the region. However, these talks did not produce a concrete result. Wangchuk attributed his protest to amplifying Ladakhi voices and easing pressure from industrial and mining factions, and called on citizens to form support groups for Ladakhi’s cause.
Wangchuk also highlighted environmental concerns, particularly the exploitation of the Himalayas by industry through dam building and mining activities. He described the phased nature of his fast, aligning with Mahatma Gandhi’s strategy during the independence struggle, aimed at forcing policymakers to address Ladakh’s claims.
The Sixth Schedule, enshrined in Article 244 of the Indian Constitution, provides for autonomous administrative regions known as Autonomous District Councils (ADCs). The ADC has legislative, judicial and administrative autonomy within a country, with authority over various sectors such as land, forest, water, agriculture and policing. Currently, the Sixth Schedule applies to North-Eastern states including Assam, Meghalaya, Mizoram and Tripura.
