LEH, Sept 1: Renowned innovator and climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, along with over 100 dedicated volunteers, embarked on the ‘Delhi Chalo Padyatra’ from Leh on Sunday, initiating a powerful march towards the national capital. The foot march, organized by the Leh Apex Body (LAB), aims to draw the central government’s attention to their long-standing four-point agenda. This agenda includes demands for statehood, the extension of the Constitution’s Sixth Schedule to Ladakh, the initiation of an early recruitment process along with the establishment of a public service commission, and the creation of separate Lok Sabha seats for Leh and Kargil districts.
The LAB, in collaboration with the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA), has been leading an ongoing agitation for the past four years, advocating for these crucial demands. Despite multiple rounds of talks between Ladakh’s representatives and the Central government, discussions concluded in March without any tangible results, prompting this significant foot march.
The march commenced with fervent chants of ‘Bharat Mata Ki Jai’ and calls for the Sixth Schedule, as LAB Chairman Thupstan Chhewang flagged off the march from NDS Memorial Park. Wangchuk expressed optimism that upon their arrival in Delhi on October 2—Gandhi Jayanti, the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi—the government will respond positively to their demands.
Wangchuk emphasized the broad support for the movement, noting the participation of people from all sections of society, including elders, women, and youth. He reiterated that the demands for the Sixth Schedule and Union Territory status with a legislature are democratic rights, essential for ensuring that Ladakh’s development aligns with the region’s unique needs and aspirations.
Highlighting the strategic significance of Ladakh, Wangchuk remarked, “We share borders with Pakistan and China, and while they may boast of their technology, the people of Ladakh, who are prepared to sacrifice their lives for the nation, should be a source of pride for every Indian.” He expressed confidence that as the march progresses through Himachal Pradesh, more people will join their cause. Notably, a 90-year-old Ladakhi resident of Switzerland has expressed his intention to join the march upon its arrival in Delhi.
Chhewang described this march as a new phase in their struggle, acknowledging that while the KDA has not joined the march initially, they are expected to offer their support as it gains momentum towards Delhi. Elderly participant Tsering Dorjey, despite health concerns, vowed to accompany the march for as long as possible, stressing the seriousness of their demands.
This historic march serves as a clear message to the nation and the government that the people of Ladakh are united and resolute in their pursuit of justice and recognition of their rights.