Ladakh Activist Sonam Wangchuk to Be Discharged After 36-Day Protest Ends
Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk is set to be discharged from a hospital in New Delhi on Monday, following the conclusion of his 36-day protest. The protest, which involved a hunger strike, ended after an intervention by the Chief Justice of India (CJI). Wangchuk had been demanding statehood for the Union Territory of Ladakh and inclusion in the Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution.
Wangchuk, known for his innovative work in education and sustainable development, was admitted to the hospital earlier this week after his health deteriorated due to the prolonged fast. Medical staff confirmed that he is now stable and fit for discharge.
The protest had drawn widespread attention, with supporters and political leaders urging the government to address the demands of the people of Ladakh. The region, which was carved out of Jammu and Kashmir in 2019, has been seeking constitutional safeguards to protect its unique cultural and geographical identity.
The Chief Justice of India, during a hearing on a related petition, reportedly urged both sides to find a resolution. Following this, Wangchuk agreed to end his hunger strike. A spokesperson for Wangchuk stated, 'He has been advised to rest and recover. The fight for Ladakh's rights will continue through dialogue and democratic means.'
The discharge marks a temporary close to a high-profile protest that highlighted the ongoing concerns in Ladakh. Government officials have expressed a willingness to engage with representatives from the region to address their demands in a constitutional framework.
