Ladakh's Fight for Status: Soman Wangchuk's 28-Day Fast Threat

Climate activist Soman Wangchuk has announced a 28-day fast starting on Independence Day if the government does not meet with Ladakh authorities to discuss demands for statehood and constitutional protection. Wangchuk and local advocacy groups have submitted a memorandum to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, urging government action on these critical issues.

Climate activist Soman Wangchuk announced on Sunday he will launch a 28-day fast on Independence Day to press for statehood and constitutional protection for Ladakh if the government doesn't engage in dialogue with local authorities.

In a conversation with PTI, Wangchuk revealed that the Apex Body Leh (ABL) and Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA) submitted a memorandum of demands to Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his recent visit to Dras. These demands include full statehood for Ladakh and protection under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution.

Despite previous protests, Wangchuk said, the government has not made significant moves, pushing him to take more drastic measures. Highlighting ecological concerns, he criticized industrial and solar projects that he believes jeopardize the region's environmental and cultural integrity.