Sonam Wangchuk, Leh Apex Body Begin Fast in Leh Demanding Statehood for Ladakh

Leh, Sep 10: Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk and the Leh Apex Body on Wednesday launched a 35-day fast in Leh to press for Ladakh’s statehood and inclusion under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution.

At a press conference, preceded by an all-faith prayer service, Wangchuk  a climate activist, educator, and Ramon Magsaysay awardee said they were compelled to intensify their agitation as the Union Home Ministry had not held any talks with them in the past two months.

“The talks with the Union government stopped around two months ago, just when discussions were about to touch our core demands. Since then, no fresh meeting has been called,” Wangchuk said.

The protestors have demanded constitutional safeguards for Ladakh’s land, culture, and jobs through Sixth Schedule status, along with full-fledged statehood. Wangchuk reminded the BJP of its promise during the last Hill Council elections and said the commitment must be fulfilled before the upcoming polls in Leh.

He further announced that the fast would continue for 35 days, culminating on October 2, Gandhi Jayanti, which he called a “landmark” date in their peaceful and non-violent struggle.

The Leh Apex Body reaffirmed that the movement is democratic, rooted in constitutional principles, and aimed at securing long-term protection for the people of Ladakh.