Sonam Wangchuk, the Ladakhi engineer and education reformer, broke his 9-day fast on Tuesday morning after receiving a positive response from the government regarding his demands for the safeguarding of Ladakh's fragile mountain ecology and its indigenous people.
Wangchuk began his fast on June 18 to protest the government's decision to not grant Ladakh special status under the 6th Schedule of the Indian Constitution. The 6th Schedule provides special safeguards for the tribal areas of India, including protection of land and cultural rights.
Wangchuk also called for a change in the government's development policies for Ladakh, which he said are not sustainable and are harming the environment. He urged the government to promote a more simple lifestyle in Ladakh, in line with the traditional values of the region.
Wangchuk's fast drew widespread support from across India. Thousands of people gathered in Leh to show their support for his cause, and many celebrities and public figures also tweeted their support.
On Tuesday morning, Wangchuk broke his fast in a public ceremony in Leh. He was joined by hundreds of supporters, including government officials, religious leaders, and members of the public.
In a statement, Wangchuk said he was "grateful" for the support he had received during his fast, and he expressed hope that the government would take his demands seriously.
"I am breaking my fast today with the hope that the government will take steps to safeguard Ladakh's fragile ecology and its indigenous people," he said. "I am also hopeful that the government will adopt a more sustainable approach to development in Ladakh."
Wangchuk's fast is a reminder of the importance of protecting the environment and the rights of indigenous people. It is also a call for a more sustainable approach to development. Wangchuk's courage and determination are an inspiration to us all.
#6thSchedule #ILiveSimply #MissionLiFE #ClimateActionNow
