New Delhi: Renowned educationist and climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, who inspired the character in the Bollywood film Three Idiots, has been in the spotlight recently for his demand to include Ladakh in the Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution. On Monday night, Wangchuk, along with 150 supporters, was detained by Delhi Police at the Singhu border while marching from Leh to Delhi. They were protesting for the protection of Ladakh’s unique culture and environment.
Wangchuk and his group were held in police custody for 36 hours before being released. After his release, he expressed his determination to take the matter forward and stated, “I will soon meet Prime Minister Modi, the President, or the Home Minister.” He also visited Rajghat to pay homage to Mahatma Gandhi on Gandhi Jayanti.
“More than 150 people, from women to elderly citizens, travelled from Leh to Delhi on foot. We faced challenges upon reaching Delhi, but I believe that whatever happens, happens for a reason. Our message of environmental protection has now spread across the country,” said Wangchuk after his release.
Wangchuk emphasised the importance of simple living to protect the environment, stating, “On Gandhi Jayanti, I urge people to simplify their lives so that others can benefit. If we follow Gandhi’s teachings, the deteriorating environment in Ladakh and the Himalayas may be saved.”
He further added, “There is enough on this earth for everyone’s needs, but not for everyone’s excesses.” Wangchuk and his supporters submitted a memorandum to the government, asking for Ladakh’s protection under constitutional provisions to safeguard the Himalayas.
Wangchuk’s demands include the inclusion of Ladakh in the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution, which offers special provisions to protect tribal areas, and the restoration of Ladakh’s statehood. Earlier this year, in March, Wangchuk held a 21-day hunger strike to press for these same demands.
“We will continue our efforts and, in the coming days, I hope to meet with the Prime Minister, President, or Home Minister to discuss these critical issues,” he said, before announcing his plans to return to Ladakh soon.
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