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Sonam Wangchuk, a prominent climate activist and engineer from Ladakh, has been released from police detention after a week-long hunger strike. He and a group of fellow 'padayatris' (pilgrims) were detained in Delhi on Monday night while marching for the protection of Ladakh's environment and cultural heritage. The group's demands center around the implementation of the Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution, which would grant Ladakh greater autonomy and control over its resources.
Wangchuk and his supporters were taken to different police stations in Delhi and began their hunger strike as a form of protest. Their release came after a meeting with government officials and assurances that their demands would be considered. The group visited Mahatma Gandhi's memorial, Rajghat, on Wednesday evening, paying tribute to the leader known for his non-violent resistance, before officially ending their fast.
The 'Delhi Chalo Padyatra' (March to Delhi) was organized by the Leh Apex Body (LAB) and the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA), two organizations that have been advocating for Ladakh's statehood and inclusion under the Sixth Schedule for several years. The protesters also demand the creation of a public service commission for Ladakh, early recruitment of local residents, and separate Lok Sabha seats for the districts of Leh and Kargil.
The protest highlights the growing concerns about the environmental and cultural impact of development projects in Ladakh, a region in the Himalayas known for its unique beauty and fragile ecosystem. The Sixth Schedule, currently applicable to tribal-dominated regions in Northeast India, provides for the establishment of autonomous district councils with legislative and administrative powers. Wangchuk and his supporters believe that a similar system would safeguard Ladakh's cultural identity and protect its environment from exploitation.
The government has pledged to meet with representatives from the LAB and KDA within 15 days to discuss their demands. While the release of Wangchuk and his group is a positive step, the ultimate success of their campaign depends on the government's willingness to address their concerns and implement meaningful changes to protect Ladakh's future.
Source: Climate Activist Sonam Wangchuk Released From Detention, Breaks Fast