Climate activist and educator Sonam Wangchuk has begun an indefinite hunger strike at Jantar Mantar, saying he was compelled to return to protest after promises made to the people of Ladakh remained unfulfilled and dialogue with the Centre failed to make progress.
Speaking to PTI, Wangchuk said he had hoped he would never have to launch another agitation but felt he had no other option. Reaffirming his commitment to Ladakh’s constitutional demands, including Sixth Schedule status, he said he would not back down despite the personal risks.
“I may even die, but I will not step back,” Wangchuk said, adding that the fast was not a choice but a necessity to revive meaningful dialogue with the government.
The activist recalled meetings held with the Centre during and after his detention under the National Security Act (NSA) in 2025, expressing disappointment that the discussions did not lead to concrete outcomes. He alleged that conclusions reached during the May 22 meeting were never formally documented, deepening the trust deficit between Ladakh’s people and the government.
Wangchuk said the lack of progress had weakened public confidence, especially after earlier assurances regarding constitutional safeguards were not fulfilled.
Despite his criticism, he maintained that he still believed dialogue was the only way forward and hoped the government would honour its commitments and address the concerns of Ladakh’s people.
Calling for accountability, Wangchuk urged that the issue be debated in Parliament during the upcoming session. He also appealed to political parties to rise above partisan interests and support the movement for the benefit of future generations.
Emphasising non-violence, Wangchuk asked protesters to remain peaceful and fearless, saying public support would strengthen the movement and encourage the government to respond.
He also encouraged young activists not to fear imprisonment, describing his own detention as a transformative experience.
Reiterating that his movement is rooted in environmental protection and education, Wangchuk warned against allowing Ladakh’s concerns to remain unresolved, saying the sensitive border region deserves urgent attention in the national interest.
