“Climate Crusader Sonam Wangchuk Intensifies Stir for Environmental Conservation.”
Social activist, engineer, and innovator Sonam Wangchuk ended his 5-day climate fast on Monday, promising to escalate his protest for environmental conservation and the implementation of the 6th Schedule of the Indian Constitution for Ladakh. Wangchuk, who inspired the hit film “3-Idiots,” aimed to draw attention from Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the world to live simpler and carbon-neutral lives.
In a video message, Wangchuk said that if there was no response from the government, he would go on a hunger strike, starting with 10 days, increasing the duration each time. Despite being placed under house detention by the administration due to roadblocks, he received overwhelming support from local leaders and residents.
The fast was held at the Himalayan Institute of Alternatives Ladakh (HIAL) and was initially planned to be held at Khardungla pass, but due to heavy snow, it was held on the HIAL campus instead. Wangchuk’s cause has received support from the Leh Apex Body and Kargil Democratic Alliance, who are leading a campaign for full statehood, 6th Schedule status, and two Lok Sabha seats for Ladakh UT.