Mehbooba Mufti Accuses Centre of 'Colonial Mindset' Over Silence on Wangchuk's Hunger Strike

Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti has criticised the central government for its lack of response to climate activist Sonam Wangchuk's ongoing hunger strike, alleging a lingering 'colonial mindset' in the administration's approach to regional issues.

Wangchuk, a prominent environmentalist from Ladakh, began his hunger strike earlier this week to press for urgent action on climate change and sustainable development in the Himalayan region. He has been demanding that the government address the impact of rapid industrialisation and tourism on Ladakh's fragile ecosystem.

Speaking to reporters in Srinagar, Mufti expressed solidarity with Wangchuk and questioned why the Centre had remained silent on the matter. 'When a person of Sonam Wangchuk's stature resorts to a hunger strike, it is a sign of desperation. The government's silence is deafening and reflects a colonial mindset that treats the people of these regions as second-class citizens,' she said.

Mufti, the president of the Jammu and Kashmir Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), urged the central government to engage in dialogue with Wangchuk and address his concerns. She also called on other political leaders to support the activist's cause.

Sonam Wangchuk is widely known for his work in education and environmental conservation in Ladakh. He gained international recognition after his role in the 2018 film '3 Idiots', which was inspired by his life. His hunger strike has drawn attention to the challenges faced by the region due to climate change and unplanned development.

The BJP-led central government has not yet issued a formal statement on Wangchuk's protest. Officials have said that their priority is to maintain law and order while ensuring that all legitimate demands are considered through established channels.

Political analysts note that Mufti's criticism comes amid heightened tensions between the Centre and regional parties over issues of autonomy and development in Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh, especially after the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019.

As the hunger strike continues, supporters of Wangchuk have staged peaceful protests in several cities, calling for immediate intervention by the Union government.