Centre Points Finger at Sonam Wangchuk: 'Provocative Statements' Incited Ladakh Violence

New Delhi is asserting that the recent outbreak of violence in Ladakh, particularly in Leh, was directly incited by 'provocative statements' made by renowned environmentalist and education reformer Sonam Wangchuk. The Union Home Ministry has conveyed to the Election Commission that Wangchuk's rhetoric played a significant role in escalating tensions, leading to a mob violating prohibitory orders and engaging in violent acts against law enforcement.

The mountainous region of Ladakh has been a hotbed of protests, with local communities, including the influential Leh Apex Body (LAB) and Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA), demanding statehood for Ladakh and its inclusion under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution.

These demands stem from concerns over the protection of Ladakh's unique tribal identity, culture, land, and fragile Himalayan environment, especially following its separation from Jammu and Kashmir and becoming a Union Territory in 2019.

The Ministry's communication highlights the incident on April 6, when a large crowd defied prohibitory orders under Section 144 of the CrPC, which were in place due to Wangchuk's ongoing 'climate fast' and associated demonstrations.

According to the government, the gathering turned violent, with protesters pelting stones at security personnel, resulting in injuries to multiple police officers.

The government claims that Sonam Wangchuk's speeches, particularly those focusing on potential environmental degradation and the 'mass migration' of tribals into Ladakh, fueled public discontent and directly led to the aggressive confrontation.

These statements, the Centre argues, created a climate of agitation that spiraled into unlawful assembly and violence.

Meanwhile, Sonam Wangchuk, known globally for his innovative educational initiatives and environmental activism, has been on a hunger strike, which he refers to as a 'climate fast,' to draw attention to these critical issues facing Ladakh.

He has consistently voiced the community's fears about industrial exploitation and the potential loss of their distinct way of life without the constitutional safeguards offered by the Sixth Schedule.

Despite the allegations, the Union government reiterated its commitment to safeguarding Ladakh's distinct identity, culture, and environment.

It emphasized that discussions with stakeholders from the region are ongoing, aiming to address the concerns of the local population while maintaining peace and order. This incident underscores the deep-seated anxieties within Ladakh and the complex challenge the government faces in balancing development with the preservation of indigenous rights and environmental sanctity.