Sonam Wangchuk, real-life ‘Phunsukh Wangdu,’ innovator whose life inspired the 3 Idiots movie, also a climate activist and education reformer, concluded his 21 day hunger strike, during which he survived solely on salt and water.
His protest aimed to advocate for statehood for Ladakh and the preservation of the delicate Himalayan environment.
His hunger strike was a bold statement aimed at drawing attention to the environmental and developmental challenges confronting Ladakh and urging authorities to take decisive steps towards sustainable solutions.
Earlier, Sonam Wangchuk urged the Union government to “demonstrate courage” and address the demands of the people of Ladakh.
In a video shared, he highlighted that despite temperatures plummeting to -10 degrees Celsius, 350 individuals had joined him in the hunger strike, emphasizing their determination.
Sonam Wangchuk’s Resolutions
“I will continue to fight for constitutional safeguards for Ladakh and people’s political rights,” Wangchuk said.
As Sonam Wangchuk concluded his hunger strike, thousands gathered across the Union Territory in support. Women’s groups have announced plans to initiate a hunger strike to advocate for the same demands.
“We are trying to remind and awaken the consciousness of our Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah to safeguard the fragile ecosystem of the Himalayan mountains in Ladakh and the unique indigenous tribal cultures that thrive here,” the activist further said.
“We do not want to think of PM Modi and Amit Shah ji as just politicians, we would rather like to think of them as statesmen but, for that, they will have to show some character and farsightedness,” he added.
“No, we are not at all against the central government. We would just appeal to the central government to not be against Ladakh. All we are asking is keep your promises,” Sonam Wangchuk said.
Govt’s response
The Central government formed a high-level committee to address the demands, but despite several meetings with representatives of the protesters, no significant progress was made.
On March 4, leaders from the Union Territory met with Home Minister Amit Shah, who reportedly declined to meet their demands. Following this, Sonam Wangchuk commenced his hunger strike in leh two days later.
In the aftermath of his protest, Sonam Wangchuk resolve remains unshaken, his determination undimmed. He stands as a beacon of hope, a symbol of resilience in the face of adversity, inspiring others to join the fight for a more sustainable world. The legacy of his hunger strike will endure as a testament to the power of activism and the indomitable spirit of those who dare to dream of a better tomorrow.