Ladakh, the land of high passes and beautiful landscapes, is facing an existential crisis. As climate change accelerates and unsustainable development takes its toll, the very essence of Ladakh's identity and way of life is under threat. In the face of this impending disaster, Sonam Wangchuk, the visionary engineer and educator, has emerged as a ray of hope, spearheading efforts to protect and revive Ladakh. This article puts focus onto the multifaceted challenges worrying Ladakh and Sonam Wangchuk's relentless fight to safeguard its future.
Chapter 1:
What is Happening in Ladakh? On January 21, 2023, Sonam Wangchuk announced a hunger strike starting from Republic Day. He wanted to protest in Khardung La, the world's highest motorable road. But the government denied him permission, citing low temperatures as a risk to his life. When he tried to go, the police stopped him and put him under house arrest. Wangchuk believes this was to hide the failures of Ladakh's administration. While the right to protest is a fundamental right, suicide is considered a crime. If the state becomes aware that an individual's life is in danger, they will take any necessary measures to prevent it, even if it means intervening forcefully. The notion of protection was merely used as an excuse in this context. He undertook again his fast in March 2024 for 15 days to support his demand for constitutional safeguard of the Union Territory, and protection of Ladakh from industrial and mining lobbies. He also started a 21-day hunger strike in support of Ladakh residents on March 6, 2024 to demand statehood for Ladakh under the Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution in order to make decisions regarding the use and management of resources such as land and water. Ladakh is protesting for its fundamental rights. Let us focus on every point on what crisis they are facing.
Chapter 2:
What Ladakh Wants? Ladakh got its own identity sparking with optimism among its people. In 2019 when Article 370 was scrapped. People were happy because they thought their voices would finally be heard. Before that, Ladakh was often ignored in budgets, policies, and attention. Major funds were used in Jammu and Kashmir and a very small piece was used in Ladakh. The main reason for this distribution was security issues in Kashmir which apparently required more attention financially. Now, Ladakh is well informed about its demands-
- Sustainable development.
- Political representation in Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha.
- Job security through establishment of Public Service Commission.
- Security from China.
However, above mentioned requests are being consistently neglected by the government.
Chapter 3:
Why Ladakh is Angry? Despite the elimination of Article 370, there is discontent in Ladakh. The matter remains unresolved as Ladakh has transitioned into a Union Territory (UT) though lacking of a legislative assembly. Consequently, governmental bureaucrats, rather than democratically elected leaders, hold the power. This inequality can be rectified through the adoption of the 6th schedule.
What is this 6th schedule? This is a provision in India's constitution which gives tribal areas the right to self-administer through ADCs and ARCs. ADC means Autonomous District Councils and ARC means Autonomous Regional Councils allows conduction of Democratic elections. Members of these councils can give suggestions to the Governor for the betterment of this area. This provision was majorly done for India's north eastern region like Assam, Tripura, Meghalaya, Mizoram because a lot of population there is tribal population. Ladakh too has vast natural biodiversity and many times this area is vulnerable to climate change. The people of Ladakh want the power to decide for themselves, like other places in India. They fear due to privatisation, outsiders might harm Ladakh's environment and culture in the name of development.
Chapter 4:
Why Sonam Wangchuk Makes Sense? Sonam Wangchuk wants Ladakh's voice to be heard. He's not against the government but wants to work together for Ladakh's development. He's a climate warrior. He emphasizes the importance of empowering local communities and preserving traditional knowledge systems to confront contemporary challenges and has support from Ladakh's people of all religions showing the unity of purpose in safeguarding the region's future. This indicates that it is not a religious movement neither a political movement. Ladakh needs attention now, not in another 70 years. We must listen to their demands and support them.
Reviving Traditional Wisdom:
Wangchuk's efforts are deeply rooted in the belief that Ladakh's survival lies in rediscovering and revitalizing its traditional wisdom. He advocates for the revival of age-old practices such as ice stupas and sustainable agriculture, which harness the natural resources of Ladakh in harmony with its delicate ecosystem. By preserving and promoting traditional knowledge systems, Wangchuk seeks to empower local communities and build resilience against external threats.
Conclusion:
Ladakh is at a turning point. It could either keep getting worse or start getting better soon.
The issue of statehood and implementation of Sixth Schedule are close to the hearts of people in Ladakh. It is not just their demand. It is a popular sentiment and aspiration of the people of Ladakh and we, as responsible citizens of India should support them to take this struggle to its logical conclusion. Unfortunately, the Central government seems to be underestimating their resolve. They are trying Ladakh to be quelled with force. Is India really a democrat? Then why are these demands getting suppressed by the bureaucrats? Places like these are precious gems of our country. But the way Government is treating these precious gems today tells us a lot about their poor intentions. Who truly is benefiting from this situation? Is it the people or few close friends of top bureaucrats of Government? Sonam Wangchuk's valiant efforts serve as a rallying cry for all those who cherish the beauty and resilience of this enchanting land. As we stand witness to Ladakh's struggle for survival, let us heed Wangchuk's call to action and join hands in safeguarding its future for generations to come. For in the battle for Ladakh's soul, the stakes could not be higher, and the time for action is now.