TL;DR:Ā After 15 days of fasting, climate activist Sonam WangchukĀ ended his protest following a promise from the Ministry of Home AffairsĀ for discussions on Ladakh's demandsĀ on December 3. Wangchuk has long been a vocal advocate for Ladakh's autonomyĀ and climate protection, but the Modi governmentās track recordĀ raises concernsāwill this promise stick, or is it just another political bluff? š¤
š Why Was Sonam Wangchuk Fasting?
Wangchuk began an indefinite salt-and-water fastĀ on October 6Ā to demand constitutional safeguardsĀ for Ladakh under the Sixth Schedule. His goal? To protect Ladakhās fragile ecosystemĀ and ensure that locals can preserve their land and cultural identityĀ šļø.
Throughout his protest, villagers from across Ladakhāeven those along China and Pakistan bordersāobserved fasts to show solidarity. The Delhi police, however, detained protestersĀ supporting Wangchuk, sparking further outrage.
š The Government Steps InāBut Will It Deliver?
On October 21, the Home MinistryĀ assured that talks with Ladakh leaders will resumeĀ on December 3, prompting Wangchuk to end his fast. But given the Modi governmentās reputationĀ for empty promises, many supporters remain skeptical š¤. "The government is good at calling for talksĀ but often fails to follow through," Wangchuk warned in a social media post.
The activist has received widespread support, including from the ShankaracharyaĀ and youth movements like AISA, despite police crackdowns on demonstrators.
š¬ MediaFx Opinion: India Canāt Ignore Wangchuk
Sonam Wangchuk isnāt just an environmentalistāheās a national icon. The beloved character of Phunsukh WangduĀ in the movie 3 IdiotsĀ was based on his life. Wangchukās fight against climate changeĀ isnāt just for Ladakhāitās for all of India š±.
But the Modi governmentās allegiance to corporate giants like AdaniĀ often trumps environmental causes. Ignoring Wangchukās demands would be foolish. This isnāt just about Ladakhāif India doesnāt back him now, it will look like a country treating its own people like "idiots" š„“.
Itās time for citizens to stand with WangchukĀ and hold the government accountable. If leaders donāt listen to the people, theyāll be judged harshly by future generations.
š¬ Whatās Your Take?
Will the government keep its promise this time? Or is it just another delay tactic? Drop your thoughts below!