Sonam Wangchuk, a prominent activist from Ladakh, initiated a hunger strike on Sunday after facing a setback in his efforts to raise awareness about the region’s aspirations for Sixth Schedule status. Wangchuk and his fellow activists had sought permission to continue their protest at Jantar Mantar in Delhi, a traditional site for public demonstrations. However, their request was denied, leaving them with limited options.
Expressing his frustration, Wangchuk stated that the group felt compelled to embark on a hunger strike at Ladakh Bhavan in Delhi, where they are currently residing. “We had no option but to begin (a hunger strike) from Ladakh Bhavan where we are virtually detained… The assurance that we were given to meet the top leadership of the country, we haven’t been given any dates for that so we were forced to start our hunger strike again which we broke on Rajghat,” he explained. The activists are seeking a meeting with top government officials to discuss their demands for the Sixth Schedule, which they believe is crucial for safeguarding Ladakh’s unique cultural identity and autonomy.
The Sixth Schedule, a part of the Indian Constitution, provides for the administration of tribal areas in certain states. Its implementation in Ladakh would grant the region greater control over its resources, land rights, and governance. The activists argue that this move is essential to protect Ladakh’s distinct identity and ensure its sustainable development. The hunger strike highlights the growing frustration among Ladakh’s population, who feel their concerns are not being adequately addressed by the government. It remains to be seen whether this dramatic action will prompt the government to engage in meaningful dialogue with the activists and address their demands for the Sixth Schedule.
