Sonam Wangchuk, a prominent engineer and education reformer from Ladakh, has embarked on a padyatra from Leh to Delhi, rallying for critical environmental issues and local rights. In a recent video, he shared how he and around 150 supporters are spending their nights in Gurudwaras, temples, and Gonpas, emphasizing their commitment to the communities they pass through by donating generously to these places. Wangchuk noted that the funding for their journey comes from the collective contributions of the people who believe in their cause.LIFE OF BHIKSHU MENDICANTSThanks to Girudwaras, Mandirs & Gonpas#saveladakh #Savehimalaya #climatemarch #6thscheduleforladakh pic.twitter.com/zJZtOUkVTh— Sonam Wangchuk (@Wangchuk66) September 25, 2024A call for government accountabilityWangchuk, known for his innovative approaches to education and sustainable development, has previously voiced concerns regarding the environmental damage caused by industrialization in Ladakh. He criticized the government for imposing a 13-gigawatt project without consulting local communities, highlighting the need for inclusive decision-making processes.As the padyatra continues, Wangchuk and his fellow activists aim to remind the government of its promises made five years ago regarding ecological and cultural protections for the region. Reaching Himachal Pradesh recently, he expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support received in the villages and valleys. As soon as we entered Himachal Pradesh, we received immense support in all the villages and valleys, Wangchuk stated. He noted that while their initial group consisted of 100 people, they have since expanded to around 150 to 200 participants as more individuals joined the cause.Emphasizing the importance of the HimalayasWangchuks mission extends beyond just government accountability he aims to raise awareness about the vital role the upper Himalayas play in providing water to North India through their glaciers. If these glaciers are lost, everyone will face a water shortage, he warned, emphasizing the need for collective action to protect this crucial resource.In addition to advocating for ecological protections, Wangchuk has been a vocal proponent of statehood for Ladakh and its inclusion under the 6th Schedule of the Indian Constitution, which grants special rights to tribal communities. His recent nine-day fast aimed to draw attention to the importance of safeguarding Ladakhs fragile mountain ecology and the rights of its indigenous people.Wangchuks efforts come in the wake of the abrogation of Article 370 in August 2019, which led to the bifurcation of Jammu and Kashmir into two Union Territories—Jammu-Kashmir and Ladakh. His ongoing padyatra serves as a reminder of the urgent need for environmental conservation and local empowerment in the face of rapid change.
