Climate Activist Sonam Wangchuk Ends 21-Day Hunger Strike

Climate activist and education reformer Sonam Wangchuk, known for inspiring the character in “3 Idiots,” concluded his 21-day hunger strike demanding statehood for Ladakh and environmental protection.

“The fight persists,” Wangchuk declared, emphasizing his continued advocacy for Ladakh’s constitutional rights and political representation. Thousands across Ladakh celebrated the strike’s end, while women’s groups pledged to carry the torch with their own hunger strike.

A Determined Stand for Ladakh

Wangchuk, who initially vowed to extend the fast indefinitely, began on March 6th. In a video message, he highlighted the harsh conditions, showing a frozen glass of water, and revealed 350 people joining him despite sub-zero temperatures.

“We urge Prime Minister Modi and Home Minister Shah to recognize Ladakh’s fragile Himalayan ecosystem and unique tribal cultures,” Wangchuk implored. “We seek statesmanship, not mere politics, demonstrated by decisive action.”

Roots of the Protest

Ladakh, comprising Leh and Kargil districts, became a separate Union Territory after the abrogation of Article 370 in August 2019. This triggered widespread protests and hunger strikes.

Leh’s Buddhist majority and Kargil’s Muslim population, united under the Apex Body of Leh and Kargil Democratic Alliance, demanded statehood and Sixth Schedule protections for tribal communities.

Despite government-formed committees, talks with protestors yielded no breakthroughs. Following a meeting with Home Minister Shah on March 4th, where demands were reportedly rejected, Wangchuk embarked on his hunger strike.