Sonam Wangchuk Ends 15-Day Hunger Strike Amid Deadly Violence in Leh; 4 Dead, Over 50 Injured

In a dramatic turn of events, climate activist Sonam Wangchuk ended his 15-day hunger strike on Wednesday, calling for statehood for Ladakh and its inclusion under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution. What began as a peaceful protest quickly spiraled into chaos, as tens of thousands took to the streets of Leh, resorting to arson, vandalism, and violent clashes with security forces. Thick plumes of smoke and fire engulfed the city, marking one of the deadliest episodes in recent Ladakh history.

Reports indicate that 4 people lost their lives and over 50 were injured during the unrest. The violence erupted after two of the hunger strikers, who had been fasting since September 10, were hospitalized due to deteriorating health, prompting the Ladakh Apex Body (LAB) youth wing to call for mass protests. Demonstrators attacked the BJP headquarters and the Hill Council, throwing stones and setting vehicles ablaze.

Prohibitory Orders and Government Response

In a bid to restore order, the Leh administration imposed prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), banning gatherings of five or more people. Officials warned that violations would attract strict punitive action under Section 223 of the BNSS.

Wangchuk Appeals for Calm

Despite the unrest, Wangchuk pleaded with his supporters to stop the violence, warning that such actions would undermine the movement's goals.

"I request the youth of Ladakh to stop the violence forthwith as it only causes harm to our cause and further deteriorates the situation. We do not want instability in Ladakh and the country," Wangchuk said. Earlier, he had posted on X:

"VERY SAD EVENTS IN LEH. My message of peaceful path failed today. I appeal to youth to please stop this nonsense. This only damages our cause."

The Sixth Schedule: The Heart of the Demand

The Sixth Schedule of the Constitution protects tribal communities in northeastern states such as Tripura, Meghalaya, Mizoram, and Assam. It provides autonomous governance, alternative judicial systems, and financial powers to local councils. Activists in Ladakh have been demanding similar safeguards to protect the region's land, culture, and resources, making Wangchuk's hunger strike a rallying cry for long-standing grievances.

As the city recovers from the chaos, the end of Wangchuk's fast signals a critical moment in Ladakh's struggle - a pause for reflection amidst calls for peaceful protest and constitutional justice.