JODHPUR, October 4: Environmentalist and activist Sonam Wangchuk, currently lodged in Jodhpur Central Jail, has conveyed a message to the people of Ladakh and the nation, reaffirming his commitment to the ongoing peaceful struggle for Ladakh’s constitutional rights. The message was released by his legal team and family on Friday.
According to his lawyer Mustafa Haji and his elder brother Ka Tsetan Dorjey Ley, who met Wangchuk in jail, the activist expressed gratitude for the public’s support and concern. “I am doing well, both physically and mentally, and thank everyone for their concern and prayers,” Wangchuk said.
In his message, Wangchuk offered condolences to the families of those who lost their lives and expressed solidarity with those injured or arrested during recent protests. He also called for an independent judicial inquiry into the killing of four individuals in Ladakh, stating that he is “prepared to stay in jail” until such an inquiry is conducted.
Reiterating his support for the Apex Body Leh, the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA), and the people of Ladakh, Wangchuk said he stands “firmly” with their “genuine constitutional demand for Sixth Schedule status and Statehood.” He added that he “wholeheartedly supports” any actions taken by these bodies in the interest of Ladakh.
Appealing for calm and unity, Wangchuk urged people to uphold the principles of non-violence in their movement. “I appeal to people to keep peace and unity and continue with our struggle peacefully—in the true Gandhian way of non-violence,” he said.
Wangchuk, known for his environmental activism and advocacy for sustainable development in Ladakh, was detained amid growing protests over Ladakh’s political status and environmental concerns.
