Chief Justice Urges End to Hunger Strike as Opposition MPs Rally Behind Ladakh Activist
The Chief Justice of India has called on climate activist Sonam Wangchuk to end his hunger strike, urging dialogue as the way forward for the Ladakh region's demands. The appeal came as a delegation of Opposition Members of Parliament prepared to meet Wangchuk at Gurugram's Medanta Hospital to persuade him to call off the protest.
Wangchuk, a noted engineer and environmentalist known for pioneering the Ice Stupa technique, has been on an indefinite hunger strike since the beginning of the month. He is demanding the inclusion of Ladakh in the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution, which would grant the region greater autonomy and protect its unique cultural identity. Additionally, he seeks statehood for Ladakh and a separate legislature.
His protest comes amid growing resentment in the region over its perceived neglect by the central government. Ladakh, a union territory since 2019, lacks an elected legislative assembly, leaving residents with limited representation. Wangchuk's hunger strike has drawn support from various quarters, including student groups, civil society organisations, and political parties.
The Chief Justice, while hearing a related petition, expressed concern over Wangchuk's health and urged him to end the fast. 'We will carry this movement forward in the judiciary. Please end your hunger strike,' he said, according to reports. The court has assured that it will consider the constitutional validity of the demands.
The Opposition MPs, including leaders from the Congress and other parties, are expected to meet Wangchuk later today. They plan to offer their full support to his cause while requesting him to end the fast, which has entered its 18th day. Sources close to Wangchuk indicate that he is in stable condition but has lost significant weight.
The central government has not yet responded directly to Wangchuk's demands, but officials have stated that the issue is being examined. The Home Ministry is reportedly consulting with legal experts on the feasibility of granting Sixth Schedule status to Ladakh, which already has a unique constitutional position as a union territory without a legislature.
The situation highlights the ongoing tension between the region's aspirations for self-governance and the central government's approach to administration. As the hunger strike continues, pressure is mounting on all sides to find a peaceful resolution that respects both the law and the sentiments of the people of Ladakh.
