Leh, May 17: Ramon Magsaysay Award winner and social activist Sonam Wangchuk has stated that the BJP has not fulfilled its promise regarding the implementation of the Sixth Schedule for Ladakh. He announced that after the formation of the new central government, he would resume his struggle, and his agitation will continue until all demands are met.
As per news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), earlier this year, in March, Sonam Wangchuk embarked on a 21-day fast in sub-zero temperatures to demand full statehood for Ladakh, implementation of the Sixth Schedule, the establishment of a separate Public Service Commission for the state, and the allocation of two parliamentary seats for Ladakh. His protest garnered nationwide support. Following the conclusion of his fast on March 26, Wangchuk initiated a sit-in protest, which he paused on May 10 in light of the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.
Despite ongoing discussions with a committee formed by the Central Government to address these issues, no satisfactory outcome was achieved. This committee included members from the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA) and the Leh Apex Body (LAB), along with a subcommittee, but the talks remained inconclusive. Wangchuk has asserted that once a new government is in place, he will renew his efforts to address Ladakh’s issues.
Wangchuk criticized the current situation, stating, “On one hand, land is being handed over to corporations, while on the other, China is occupying thousands of square kilometers of our territory. The people of the country need to understand our pain. The Sixth Schedule is essential to protect the mountains, glaciers, and ecology. Although there is a need for it across the country, the hills are particularly sensitive.”
The Sixth Schedule provides for the administration of tribal areas in northeastern states to protect their autonomy and culture. Wangchuk’s demands reflect a broader desire for similar protections for Ladakh, emphasizing the region’s unique environmental and cultural challenges. As the political landscape evolves, his commitment to advocating for these issues remains steadfast—(KNO)
