Sonam Wangchuk Ends 26-Day Fast After Govt Talks; Ladakh Protest Continues
UPSC / SSC current affairs note · Polity
Why in news
Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk ended his 26-day hunger strike after discussions with Union ministers JP Nadda and Jitendra Singh. The protest by the Apex Body of Leh Ladakh continues, highlighting unresolved demands for Ladakh's statehood and Sixth Schedule protection.
Background
Sonam Wangchuk, known for his education reform and climate activism, began the fast to press for Ladakh's inclusion in the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution and statehood, along with job reservations and environmental protections. The Apex Body of Leh Ladakh has been leading protests since 2020 after the abrogation of Article 370.
Key facts
Sonam Wangchuk ended his 26-day hunger strike on Friday after talks with Union ministers JP Nadda and Jitendra Singh.
The activist broke his fast in the presence of the ministers and senior leaders of the Apex Body of Leh Ladakh.
Wangchuk stated that 65 MPs from different parties had visited or sent letters urging him to end the fast.
Concerns over possible violence across the country influenced his decision to break the fast.
The specific demands met remain unclear; Wangchuk said he would detail the agreed conditions in a separate video.
The Apex Body of Leh Ladakh's protest continues, indicating that core demands are not fully resolved.
Prelims pointers
- Sixth Schedule of the Constitution
- Article 370 abrogation (2019)
- Ladakh: Union Territory since 2019
- Apex Body of Leh Ladakh
- Sonam Wangchuk: education reformer, climate activist
Mains angles
- GS2: Issues related to federalism, special status demands, and constitutional provisions for tribal areas.
- GS3: Internal security challenges arising from regional protests and government negotiation strategies.
- GS2: Role of civil society and activists in policy advocacy and democratic dissent.