Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk has urged the Union Government to uphold its promise of granting Ladakh protection under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution, emphasizing the need for leaders to remain trustworthy. Speaking to India Today after his release from detention, Wangchuk called on the government to avoid actions that could damage its respect and credibility, stating that true friends offer corrections when needed.
Wangchuk, along with around 120 others from Ladakh, was detained by police at the Delhi border on Monday night while marching to demand the inclusion of Ladakh under the Sixth Schedule. This schedule, currently applicable to certain northeastern states such as Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura, and Mizoram, allows for the governance of tribal areas through “autonomous districts and regions,” aimed at protecting the rights of indigenous communities. The demonstrators hope to secure similar safeguards for Ladakh.
When asked about the possibility of statehood for Ladakh, Wangchuk clarified that it is the wish of the people but not a formal demand.
“Statehood was never promised. While some believe the Centre committed to this, it’s only an appeal from Ladakh’s residents, who seek the same democratic rights as other parts of India,” he said.
In contrast, the inclusion under the Sixth Schedule was a specific promise, as seen in the manifestos of the 2019 Lok Sabha elections and the 2020 Ladakh council elections, where it was a key agenda point.
Wangchuk expressed frustration over the five-year delay in fulfilling this promise, noting that he is not aligned with any political party but simply wants the government to honor its commitments.
“I still trust the government, as the Home Ministry had assured me this would happen,” he added.
Wangchuk was leading the ‘Delhi Chalo Padyatra,’ a march that began from Leh a month ago. His detention drew criticism from opposition leaders, including Rahul Gandhi, who described it as “unacceptable.” Gandhi questioned why elderly citizens, peacefully advocating for Ladakh’s environmental and constitutional rights, were detained and warned that the government would ultimately be forced to heed the voice of Ladakh.
The Solicitor General of India Tushar Mehta on Thursday informed the Delhi High Court that Sonam Wangchuk and his associates have been released from detention, and their movements are no longer restricted.
“They visited Rajghat (on Wednesday). They were there for about two hours. They gave a memorandum which was accepted by the Ministry of Home Affairs….” he added.
