Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk and around 120 other individuals from Ladakh were detained at the Delhi border while marching to the capital to demand sixth schedule status for Ladakh. The group, which included members from the Leh Apex Body (LAB) and the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA), had embarked on the march to raise concerns about the region’s representation, autonomy, and protection under the Indian Constitution.
The Sixth Schedule Demand
The sixth schedule of the Indian Constitution provides certain regions, especially tribal areas, with autonomy and self-governance by granting powers to local governing bodies. The leaders and activists from Ladakh have long been advocating for its implementation to protect the unique cultural, ecological, and demographic fabric of the Union Territory. Since the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019, Ladakh was bifurcated from Jammu and Kashmir, and concerns have been rising about the lack of legislative representation for the region.
Wangchuk, who has been at the forefront of environmental conservation in Ladakh, along with his fellow protestors, argue that the sixth schedule would safeguard the tribal communities of Ladakh from external economic and political pressures. The demand is particularly crucial as Ladakh, with its fragile ecosystem and distinct demographic structure, is susceptible to the negative impacts of rapid industrialization and tourism.
Detention at Delhi Border
The march, which saw participation from individuals across Ladakh, was stopped by the Delhi Police near the city’s northern Alipur area late on September 30. Citing prohibitory orders in Delhi, the police detained Wangchuk and other protestors to prevent any law and order disruption in the capital. A senior police officer informed the press that the detentions were made as a preventive measure and assured that the detained individuals would be released after some time.
“We understand the concerns of the protestors. However, in light of the current situation and considering the prohibitory orders in place, we had no choice but to detain them temporarily. They will be released soon,” said the officer.
The protestors had planned to spend the night at the Delhi border after reaching the capital. However, their plan was thwarted due to the police intervention. According to reports, they were taken to Alipur and other police stations along the border where they are being held temporarily.
Response from Ladakh’s Leaders
Speaking from the site of the march before his detention, Sonam Wangchuk reiterated the need for the Indian government to consider the demands of the Ladakhi people. “We are not here to disrupt or cause trouble. Our demand is simple — we want our culture, environment, and people protected under the sixth schedule. Ladakh’s identity is at risk, and we must act now to ensure a sustainable future for our generations,” said Wangchuk.
Members of the LAB and KDA have also raised their voices in solidarity, calling for immediate governmental attention to their demands. “This is not just about autonomy; it’s about preserving Ladakh’s soul. The sixth schedule is a step towards protecting our people’s rights, and we will not stop until our demands are met,” said a spokesperson from the Kargil Democratic Alliance.
Prohibitory Orders in Delhi
Delhi, currently facing multiple security concerns, has imposed prohibitory orders under Section 144 of the CrPC (Criminal Procedure Code), which bans gatherings of more than four people in certain areas of the city. With the upcoming assembly elections and the general atmosphere of protests across the country on various issues, the administration is keen to maintain public order.
Protests and marches demanding various rights and legislative actions have been intensifying in recent months, especially concerning tribal rights and regional autonomy in several parts of the country. The situation in Ladakh is one of many examples of regions seeking greater autonomy in light of changing political dynamics in the country.
Growing Tensions
While the Indian government has yet to respond to the latest demands from Ladakh’s leaders, tensions in the region have been brewing for some time. The demand for sixth schedule status is seen as a critical issue by the people of Ladakh, who fear that without it, their voices will be sidelined, and their unique cultural and ecological identity might be compromised.
Ladakh is known for its strategic significance, bordering China and Pakistan, and its ecological importance due to its high-altitude cold desert landscape. Protecting the interests of the local people while balancing national security and development priorities has been a challenge for the Indian government.
As the detained protestors await their release, the demand for sixth schedule status for Ladakh remains a pressing issue. The coming days are likely to see increased dialogue and potential political negotiations regarding Ladakh’s future. Wangchuk and the other activists have made it clear — they will continue to push for their demands, believing that the future of Ladakh rests on the implementation of the sixth schedule.
