Leh, Ladakh – Climate activist and education reformer Sonam Wangchuk's hunger strike, advocating for constitutional safeguards for Ladakh, continued into its 18th day on Saturday, March 23, 2024. Conducting his protest fast in sub-zero temperatures in Leh, Mr. Wangchuk is demanding the implementation of the Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution for the Union Territory. Concurrently, Dipke, Chief of the Centre for Justice and Peace (CJP), publicly criticized the central government for what he described as "nothing but silence" in response to the ongoing agitation.

Mr. Wangchuk commenced his 'climate fast' on March 6, 2024, primarily seeking the inclusion of Ladakh under the Sixth Schedule. This constitutional provision is designed to protect the rights of tribal populations, their land, resources, and cultural identity in designated regions. His demands also include statehood for Ladakh, separate Lok Sabha seats for Leh and Kargil, and the establishment of a Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) branch for the region to address local employment concerns. The protest is taking place outdoors in Leh, where temperatures have consistently dropped to between -10 and -20 degrees Celsius.

The activist's health has been a growing concern, with reports indicating he is stable but under significant duress due to the harsh environmental conditions. Despite the physical challenges, Mr. Wangchuk has affirmed his resolve to continue the fast until his demands are addressed. The agitation is being spearheaded by a collective of local bodies, including the Leh Apex Body (LAB) and the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA), who have been instrumental in mobilizing public support across the region.

Dipke of the CJP highlighted the perceived inaction from the central government, stating, "We have received nothing but silence from the government, which is deeply concerning given the gravity of the situation and the critical demands being raised by the people of Ladakh." This statement underscores the growing frustration among local leaders and activists regarding the perceived lack of dialogue from New Delhi. The fast has drawn considerable national attention to Ladakh's environmental fragility and the aspirations of its populace for greater self-governance and protection of their unique identity and resources.

Key Demands of the Ladakh Agitation:

  • Sixth Schedule Inclusion: To provide constitutional protection for Ladakh's tribal population, land, and resources.
  • Statehood for Ladakh: A long-standing demand following its bifurcation from Jammu and Kashmir.
  • Separate Lok Sabha Seats: For the districts of Leh and Kargil.
  • UPSC Branch for Ladakh: To address local employment opportunities and administrative requirements.

As the protest continues, national attention remains focused on Ladakh, particularly on the central government's potential response. The ongoing dialogue between local representative bodies and the central government regarding Ladakh's constitutional status has yet to yield a conclusive outcome, leaving the future course of the agitation and its impact on the region's governance and environmental protection uncertain.