Sonam Wangchuk loses 2 kgs on Day 4 of hunger strike for CJP demands
Leh: Climate activist and education reformer Sonam Wangchuk has lost two kilogrammes in weight as his hunger strike entered the fourth day on Tuesday. Wangchuk is protesting in support of the demands of the Climate, Justice, and Peace (CJP) movement, which seeks constitutional safeguards and sustainable development for the Ladakh region.
The 58-year-old educationist, known for his work in the remote Himalayan region, began his indefinite hunger strike on Friday, demanding the inclusion of Ladakh in the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution and the implementation of the region's demand for climate justice. The CJP movement has been advocating for these issues since 2023.
According to a statement from Wangchuk's team, his health is being monitored closely. 'He is weak but determined. His vitals are stable, and he is consuming only water and salt,' said a spokesperson. The protest has drawn support from various civil society groups and political leaders across the country.
The Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council (LAHDC) has passed resolutions supporting the demands, but the central government has yet to respond formally. The CJP movement argues that Ladakh's fragile ecosystem and unique culture need special protection under the Sixth Schedule, which currently applies to tribal areas in Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura, and Mizoram.
Wangchuk's hunger strike has also highlighted the broader issue of climate change in the region, where melting glaciers and erratic weather patterns are threatening livelihoods. The activist has previously led several campaigns for sustainable development, including the 'Ice Stupa' project for artificial glaciers.
As the fast continues, supporters have called on the government to initiate dialogue to resolve the demands peacefully. Wangchuk has stated that he will continue the strike until a positive response is received from the authorities.
