Public Pressure Intensifies on Leh Apex Body to Intervene
Public pressure is mounting on the Leh Apex Body (LAB) to persuade climate activist and education reformer Sonam Wangchuk to end his indefinite hunger strike at the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) protest at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi. Wangchuk's health is reportedly deteriorating as he continues his fast demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.
Sources in Ladakh indicate that many individuals have approached the Leh Apex Body, urging it to intervene and convince Wangchuk to call off his hunger strike. However, Wangchuk has so far refused to end the fast, maintaining his stance despite growing concerns.
LAB Expresses Concern Over Wangchuk's Health
Responding to queries, LAB convenor Gelek Phunchok told The Tribune on Saturday that the Apex Body is deeply concerned about the deteriorating health of its member and noted environmentalist. "His health and well-being are our foremost concern. We had planned to meet him and request him to end his fast, particularly as one of his key demands—the release of the signed minutes of the MHA-Ladakh meetings—has already been fulfilled. However, respecting his wishes, we have deferred our visit," Phunchok said.
He appealed to Wangchuk to take care of his health, emphasizing that his guidance and contributions are invaluable to Ladakh. "We hope the remaining issues can be resolved through constructive engagement," he added.
LAB Urges MHA to Finalize Draft Proposal
Phunchok stated that the Leh Apex Body remains committed to resolving outstanding issues concerning Ladakh through dialogue. "We urge the Ministry of Home Affairs to make its draft proposal public at the earliest, finalise it in consultation with all stakeholders, and introduce the necessary legislation in Parliament during the upcoming Monsoon Session. This will strengthen public confidence and help achieve a lasting and mutually acceptable solution for Ladakh," he said.
Earlier this month, leaders of the Leh Apex Body and the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA) met Union Home Ministry officials. Both sides signed the minutes of their May meeting, a development that Ladakh leaders described as a positive step.
