Ending day 16 of his #Climatefast, Environmental activist Sonam Wangchuk expressed his deep frustration with the treatment of Ladakh's people in a heartfelt appeal to Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Wangchuk, renowned for his environmental advocacy, spoke out against what he perceives as the Indian government's failure to uphold promises made to Ladakh's residents, particularly regarding safeguards under the Constitution's Sixth Schedule.
"I continue to feel drained & lower & lower in energy... Hence a final appeal to the Prime Minister of India. Sharing the unfair treatment meted out to people of Ladakh on Safeguards under 6th Schedule of the constitution. 4 years of dilly-dallying and a No in the end... after making clear promises in 2 elections in written manifestos,” Wangchuk said.
Wangchuk's appeal comes amid a protest led by him and others from the Leh-based Apex body and Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA), demanding the implementation of four key demands and protection of Ladakh's interests.
As negotiations with the central government stalled, Wangchuk initiated a 'climate fast', braving harsh sub-zero temperatures to draw attention to the plight of Ladakh's people.
He further announced plans for a border march involving thousands of Ladakhi shepherds and farmers to demonstrate the challenges faced by the region, including encroachment by Indian industrial plants and Chinese expansion.
Wangchuk's demands centre around statehood for Ladakh and the implementation of the Sixth Schedule, which provides protections for tribal areas.
He also seeks separate representation in the Lok Sabha for Leh and Kargil districts, along with dedicated recruitment processes and a Public Service Commission for Ladakh.
Wangchuk accuses the central government of betraying the trust of Ladakh's residents by stepping back on promised reforms. He warns of the dangerous precedent this sets for future governance and elections.
Expressing disappointment with the Centre's actions, Wangchuk appealed to Prime Minister Modi's integrity, suggesting that failing to uphold promises undermines democratic principles.
He urged global support for their cause, calling on people worldwide to join in fasting on March 24.
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