⚠️ Ladakh is on hunger strike ⚠️ Everything about this critical issue, which the media is intentionally hiding 👇 #LadakhProtest #SonamWangchuk

Sonam Wangchuk has been on a hunger strike for the last 16 days. FYI, Phunshuk Wangdu's character in 3 Idiots Movie was based on his life and story. Thousands of Ladakhis are standing with him in solidarity and support. What’s the matter?

Background: In Aug’19, The Central Govt. revoked Article 370 in Jammu & Kashmir. J&K comprises 3 regions - Kashmir Valley, Jammu, and Ladakh.

2 months later, Ladakh became a separate Union Territory. It was a moment of celebration for Ladakhis, as they thought it would open doors for opportunities and development. But….

Ladakh became a new hotspot for companies to start their plants and mining. It is causing harm to Ladakh’s fragile ecosystem (glaciers and river basins) and indigenous tribal culture.

Ladakhis are disappointed with the Central Govt. They feel the Govt. has cheated them by making false promises on development and growth. Hence, Sonam Wangchuk took the initiative to fight for his region and locals.

Sonam Wangchuk is on a 21-day hunger strike along with thousands of Ladakhis. What are their demands?

[1/4]  Inclusion in the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution The Sixth Schedule status grants nominal autonomy to specific regions. They can form autonomous administrative divisions known as Autonomous District Councils (ADCs). Think of ADCs almost like state governments.

ADCs can - impose taxes - control revenue - keep a check on industrial or other harmful activities - frame laws on local matters like land, public health, and agriculture Central and State Legislature Laws like CAA don’t apply in these regions.

Currently, the Sixth Schedule applies to Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura, and Mizoram. Ladakh wants the same special Tribal status for itself.

[2/4] Separate representation in Parliament Ladakh wants separate Lok Sabha seats for Leh and Kargil districts to address its unique needs and concerns.

[3/4]  Distinct recruitment process and Public Service Commission A separate Public Service Commission could oversee recruitment in Ladakh and ensure government job reservations for the local youth.

[4/4] Protection against industrial exploitation Ladakh doesn’t want to become a playground for profit-driven industrialists. It wants the Govt., social organisations, and the general public to pay more attention to the burning climate problem in Ladakh.

At present, there are no positive signs from the Central Govt. to hear these issues actively or fulfil the demands of Sonam Wangchuk and Ladakhis.

The media is not covering this issue actively. But Sonam Wangchuk has pulled attention from Ladakhis living in different parts of India, online content creators, social organisations, and celebrities. Let’s see when Sonam Wangchuk and Ladakh will get what they want.

Do you think the demands of Sonam Wangchuk and Ladakhis are justified? Say yes or no in the comments 👇

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