Mahua Moitra appeals to Sonam Wangchuk to end hunger strike on 17th day, citing health concerns

Kolkata, January 15: Trinamool Congress MP Mahua Moitra has urged climate and education activist Sonam Wangchuk to end his hunger strike, which entered its 17th day on Monday. In a public appeal, Moitra said, 'Your life matters to us. Please stop this fast.'

Wangchuk, known for his campaigns on education reform and environmental protection in Ladakh, began the indefinite fast on December 30 to press for constitutional safeguards for the region's unique culture and fragile ecosystem. His demands include implementation of the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution and protection of Ladakh's status as a union territory without elected government.

Moitra's intervention highlights growing concern among political figures over Wangchuk's health. The activist, who is in his mid-40s, has lost significant weight and is under medical supervision. 'Hunger strikes are powerful tools of protest, but they should not come at the cost of life,' Moitra added in a statement issued from New Delhi.

Wangchuk's protest has drawn support from various civil society groups and political parties, though few have directly appealed to him to end the fast. The Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council (LAHDC) has passed a resolution backing his demands. However, the central government has not yet responded to the specific requests.

Wangchuk, who gained national prominence as the founder of the Students' Educational and Cultural Movement of Ladakh (SECMOL), has a history of using non-violent protest. He was a key figure in the 'Ladakh was shut' movement in 2019 and earlier undertook a 21-day fast in 2022 for similar causes.

Moitra's appeal comes as Wangchuk's health condition is being closely monitored by doctors. She urged him to consider alternative forms of protest. 'We need you alive to continue the fight,' she said.

The development underscores the delicate balance between protest tactics and personal well-being, a recurring theme in Indian activism. As the fast continues, observers await any response from the government or a change in Wangchuk's stance.