Sonam Wangchuk, a prominent climate expert and activist from the Union Territory of Ladakh, has commenced a foot march to Delhi, joined by numerous local residents, to press for key demands.
The main demands include the restoration of statehood for Ladakh and its inclusion under the Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution.
With chants of “Fulfil our demands, we want the Sixth Schedule,” Wangchuk announced that they had covered 25 kilometers by foot as of September 2.
The march is set to reach Raj Ghat in New Delhi on October 2, coinciding with Gandhi Jayanti, where they plan to hold a protest.
Wangchuk emphasized that their protest aims to remind Prime Minister Narendra Modi of the promises made to the people of Ladakh, urging for their immediate fulfillment.
Notably, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government has yet to fully deliver on its commitments, despite initial promises.
Wangchuk highlighted that the protection of Ladakh under the Sixth Schedule was included in the BJP’s manifestos for the 2019 Lok Sabha elections and the 2020 Ladakh Hill Council polls. “We halted our movement during the elections, but after months of inaction, we are compelled to resume our efforts,” he stated.
Meanwhile, Ladakhi leaders have already initiated discussions with the Central government regarding statehood, Sixth Schedule inclusion, and the establishment of a dedicated public service commission for the region.
However, these talks have so far remained inconclusive.