Sonam Wangchuk to resume protests, seeks statehood and constitutional safeguards for Ladakh

Kargil: Social activist Sonam Wangchuk is set to launch fresh protests demanding statehood for Ladakh and constitutional safeguards for the Union Territory. The move comes after talks with the Union Ministry of Home Affairs failed to make progress. Wangchuk warned that fresh protests would be launched if favourable assurances were not received within a week. A march and protests are planned in Ladakh from September 19 to 24.

Ladakh representatives expressed disappointment over the lack of a clear draft or concrete commitments from the Centre during high-level talks held in Delhi. The Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA) and the Leh Apex Body (LAB) alleged that despite submitting three drafts over the past year on safeguards under the Sixth Schedule, statehood and the powers of a Ladakh Assembly, the Centre had not returned any draft.

Wangchuk mocked the talks, saying they had made no progress beyond tea and refreshments. It was against this backdrop that he called for a fresh round of protests. The protesters' primary objective is to secure an assurance from the Centre that it will urgently address their key demands.

Protests were also held in September last year demanding greater autonomy for Ladakh. Wangchuk was detained after the protests intensified. The fresh agitation is being planned in pursuit of a lasting solution to the region's long-standing demands.