Sonam Wangchuk released, says meeting with PM or President soon
Ladakh climate activist Sonam Wangchuk was released on Wednesday after nearly 36 hours in detention. He stated that the Union Home Ministry has assured him of a meeting with either Prime Minister Narendra Modi or President Ram Nath Kovind to address his concerns. Wangchuk, along with 150 fellow protesters from Ladakh, was detained by the Delhi Police at the Singhu border on Monday while they were entering the national capital.
Wangchuk's detention amid 'Delhi Chalo Padyatra'
The detention occurred under prohibitory orders in effect until October 6. As Wangchuk's "Delhi Chalo Padyatra" neared the national capital's border with supporters from Leh, police officials intervened. The group intended to spend the night at Singhu border but were initially asked to leave due to the prohibitory orders. When they refused, approximately 120 men, including Wangchuk, were detained by the police.
Wangchuk's march for Ladakh's environmental and constitutional rights
Wangchuk said, "We have submitted a memorandum to the government, urging protection for Ladakh under constitutional provisions to safeguard the Himalayas," he said. The march, which began on September 1, was initiated to urge the Centre to resume discussions with Ladakh's leadership. Their demands include statehood, inclusion under the Constitution's Sixth Schedule, a dedicated public service commission with an accelerated recruitment process and separate Lok Sabha seats for Leh and Kargil.
Wangchuk calls for restoration of democracy in Ladakh
Wangchuk believes that Schedule 6 of the Indian Constitution provides protection to tribal and local people, granting them authority over the management and governance of the region. "I have been assured by the home ministry that in the coming days, I will meet with India's highest leadership—the Prime Minister, President, or home minister. I have called for the restoration of democracy through statehood and the implementation of Schedule 6," he added.
Rahul Gandhi criticizes detention of Wangchuk and protesters
Meanwhile, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi criticized the detention of Wangchuk and the protesters. "Modi ji, like with the farmers, this 'Chakravyuh' will be broken, and so will your arrogance. You will have to listen to Ladakh's voice," he said on X (formerly Twitter). He also questioned why elderly citizens were being detained at Delhi's border for standing up for Ladakh's future.
