Sun Oct 06 14:13:15 UTC 2024: ## Climate Activist Sonam Wangchuk Begins Hunger Strike for Ladakh’s Rights
**New Delhi, India -** Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk has begun a hunger strike at the Ladakh Bhawan in New Delhi after being denied permission to protest at Jantar Mantar. The protest, demanding the inclusion of Ladakh in the Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution, was originally planned at the designated protest site, Jantar Mantar, but authorities denied the request.
Wangchuk, who led the “Delhi Chalo Padayatra” – a month-long march from Leh to Delhi advocating for Ladakh’s rights – expressed frustration at the rejection. Approximately 18 individuals, including Wangchuk, are participating in the hunger strike, singing and chanting slogans in support of Ladakh’s autonomy.
The Leh Apex Body and Kargil Democratic Alliance, who have been leading the agitation for the past four years, are seeking statehood for Ladakh, inclusion in the Sixth Schedule, a dedicated Public Service Commission, and separate Lok Sabha seats for Leh and Kargil districts.
Following the denial of permission, a majority of the protesters returned to Ladakh, leaving a small group behind to participate in the hunger strike with Wangchuk.
First Piper 