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Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk has been at the center of a growing controversy in India, with his peaceful protest demanding the inclusion of Ladakh in the Sixth Schedule of the Indian constitution met with forceful intervention by the Delhi Police. The incident has sparked outrage among supporters and raised concerns about the state of democracy in India, as Wangchuk and his fellow protesters were detained while attempting to engage in a silent fast outside Ladakh Bhawan in New Delhi.
The Delhi Police cited Section 144, a law that restricts gatherings in certain areas to maintain public order, as justification for the detentions. However, Wangchuk strongly condemned the actions, arguing that the inability to express oneself peacefully constitutes a violation of fundamental rights, including freedom of speech and movement. He expressed his disappointment at the state of democracy in India, highlighting the stark contrast between the government's rhetoric of freedom and its actions in suppressing peaceful dissent.
The controversy surrounding Wangchuk's protest has escalated beyond the immediate incident. The Delhi High Court, acknowledging the importance of the issue and the right to peaceful assembly, has requested responses from the Delhi Police, the Government of NCT Delhi, and other relevant parties regarding a plea from the Apex Body Leh. This plea seeks permission for Wangchuk and his supporters to conduct a peaceful protest at Jantar Mantar from October 8 to October 23. The court has scheduled a detailed hearing on October 22 to address the matter, underscoring the legal and political significance of the case.
Wangchuk's protest is rooted in a long-standing demand for constitutional protections for Ladakh, which he and his supporters believe would empower the local community to safeguard their land and cultural identity. This demand resonates with the Leh Apex Body (LAB) and the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA), who also advocate for Ladakh's inclusion in the Sixth Schedule. The current situation highlights the delicate balance between maintaining public order and protecting fundamental rights, raising questions about the government's commitment to democratic principles and the effectiveness of legal mechanisms in ensuring a just and fair outcome for all parties involved.
Source: ‘Sad for democracy’: Sonam Wangchuk after Delhi Police detain silent protesters