Leh, March 26: Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, leading a hunger strike demanding statehood for Ladakh and its inclusion in the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution, issued a fresh appeal to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday to honor promises made to the people. In video messages circulated on X, a visibly frail Wangchuk, observing the 21st day of his ‘climate fast’, urged Ladakhis to exercise their voting rights “with utmost care” for the nation’s welfare. Wangchuk, known for his contributions to education reform, has braved sub-zero temperatures since March 6, following stalled talks between representatives of the Leh-based Apex Body and Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA), jointly pushing for Ladakh’s statehood and Sixth Schedule inclusion, and the central government. The Sixth Schedule entails provisions for tribal areas’ administration in Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura, and Mizoram through autonomous district councils. The ‘climate fast’ is expected to conclude later in the day as the Apex Body and KDA announce the next steps on Wednesday. Drawing attention to BJP’s election manifesto pledges, Wangchuk invoked Lord Ram’s teachings, urging Modi to uphold the principle of ‘pran jaye par vachan na jaye’ (one may lose life, but must not break their promise). “While India epitomizes democracy, citizens hold special power. We can influence government actions or even change the government if necessary. Let us use our voting power wisely this time for the nation’s benefit,” said Wangchuk, whose life inspired Aamir Khan’s character Rancho in the film “3 Idiots.” The Lok Sabha elections, spanning seven phases from April 19 to June 1, will see Ladakh voting in the fifth phase on May 20. Expressing disappointment over the government’s silence despite around 60,000 of Ladakh’s 3 lakh residents joining the hunger strike in the past 20 days, Wangchuk emphasized the need to raise awareness among PM Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah to protect Ladakh’s fragile Himalayan ecosystem and unique tribal cultures. “We view Modi and Amit Shah not merely as politicians but as statesmen, expecting them to display integrity and foresight,” the climate activist remarked.
Sonam Wangchuk Urges PM Modi to Fulfill Promises to People of Ladakh
