“Ladakh Voices Sixth Schedule”
In Ladakh due to widespread protests demanding statehood and constitutional safeguards turned violent , tensions escalated rapidly . At least four people were killed and numerous others were injured, when clashes between protesters and security forces turned what had started out as peaceful demonstrations led by social reformer and environmental activist Sonam Wangchuk into a tragic event. Residents for months have been voicing their concerns over the lack of political representation and environmental protections after Ladakh was carved out as a Union Territory in 2019. Wangchuk, who has been on a prolonged hunger strike, has consistently pressed for Ladakh to be brought under the Sixth Schedule of the constitution, which would give the region greater autonomy and protect its fragile ecosystem and tribal identity. Further, the situation got escalated when authorities arrested Wangchuk under the stringent National Security Act, accusing him of inciting unrest through his speeches. Locals see it as deep resentment, almost like an attack on their democratic rights. Adding to the controversy, Wangchuk’s NGO, SECMOL, which has been instrumental in environmental initiatives and alternative education had its license to receive foreign donations revoked under the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act. In response to that, mobile internet services suspended, curfews have been imposed and a heavy security presence deployed across Leh and Kargil. The central government has failed to address long-standing concerns, especially regarding land rights, employment and preservation of their cultural and ecological heritage as believed by many in Ladakh. They are demand as a larger struggle for identity, environment, an dignity not only demand for political recognition as being viewed by protestors.
Read More: https://newstapone.com/2025/09/27/ladakh-protests-intensify-over-statehood-demand/
