The Aryavarth Express
Agency(Ladakh): The quest for Ladakh’s special status and statehood has unified residents of Kargil, as they commence a three-day fast alongside Sonam Wangchuk, the renowned climate activist from Leh, who is on a 21-day hunger strike. Wangchuk’s protest, which entered its 19th day on Sunday, aims to spotlight the central government’s hesitance in acknowledging Ladakh under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution, a status that would grant the region significant autonomy and protection.
The Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA), primarily representing Muslim groups in Kargil, has been at the forefront of this solidarity movement. The entire leadership, along with dozens of volunteers, gathered at Hussaini Park to commence their hunger strike, echoing Wangchuk’s call for statehood and special recognition. Prominent figures from the Kargil Autonomous Hill Development Council, including Chief Executive Councillor Dr. Jazzar Akhoon, and KDA co-chairmen Asgar Ali Karbalai and Qamar Ali Akhoon, have actively participated in this peaceful demonstration.
This movement is a collaborative effort with the Leh-based Apex Body, which encompasses various Buddhist political, social, and religious organizations, underscoring a united front across religious and cultural lines in Ladakh. Despite engaging in five rounds of discussions with the home ministry, the demands for statehood and inclusion in the Sixth Schedule have been met with promises of constitutional safeguards but not the fulfillment of their primary requests.
The agitation has garnered significant attention and support within Ladakh. In Leh, Wangchuk reported that around 5,000 individuals braved sub-zero temperatures to stand with him on the 19th day of his hunger strike, highlighting the community’s resolve and solidarity. In an intriguing proposal, Wangchuk suggested the representation of nature activists in Parliament, challenging conventional norms and sparking a conversation about the representation of non-human entities and interests within legislative bodies.
This collective action in Ladakh not only showcases the region’s desire for greater autonomy and recognition but also positions it as a potential pioneer in environmental and political advocacy, raising compelling questions about the future of democratic representation and environmental stewardship in India and beyond.