Sonam Wangchuk and Ladakh Protest: Statehood Demand

Sonam Wangchuk has emerged as a central figure in the recent protests in Ladakh demanding statehood and special constitutional protections for the region. These protests, which escalated violently in late September 2025, deeply affected the Union Territory of Ladakh, leading to curfews, clashes with police, and several casualties. Wangchuk, an acclaimed climate activist and educationist, led a hunger strike starting on September 10, 2025, pressing for Ladakh's inclusion under the Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution and for full statehood status to be granted to Ladakh.

The background of these protests lies in the political and administrative changes made in 2019, when the state of Jammu and Kashmir was bifurcated into two Union Territories: Jammu and Kashmir (with a legislature) and Ladakh (without one). Ladakh's direct central administration left many residents feeling disenfranchised and lacking political representation. Over 90% of Ladakh’s population belongs to Scheduled Tribes, and the demand for inclusion under the Sixth Schedule aims to secure legislative and financial autonomy through autonomous district councils, which safeguard tribal rights, land, and culture.

Wangchuk's hunger strike was part of a larger movement organized by youth groups like the Leh Apex Body (LAB) youth wing, calling for peaceful protests. However, as tensions rose, some protests turned violent, leading to arson, stone-pelting, and clashes that resulted in at least four deaths and many injuries, including security forces. Following these events, Wangchuk ended his hunger strike and appealed to the youth to stop violence and maintain peace to protect the movement’s integrity.

The Indian government, particularly the Ministry of Home Affairs, accused Wangchuk of inciting the unrest through his speeches and provocative statements. The government claimed that certain politically motivated individuals were attempting to sabotage ongoing talks between the Ladakhi representatives and the Centre, which had already made progress on some issues such as increasing reservations for Scheduled Tribes and recognizing local languages. The Ministry also revoked the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA) certificate of Wangchuk’s NGO, citing financial irregularities uncovered during investigations.

The protests reflect the frustration of Ladakh’s younger generation, often called 'Gen Z,' who feel their demands for political rights, job reservations, and local representation are not being adequately addressed. The movement also includes calls for more Lok Sabha seats and greater autonomy to protect Ladakh’s unique cultural and ecological identity.

Wangchuk, who previously gained fame for his innovative educational projects in Ladakh and was seen as a symbol of peaceful activism, now faces harsh scrutiny from the government amid the unrest. Despite the controversies, Wangchuk and other activists emphasize dialogue and non-violence as the path forward, urging the government to address Ladakh's demands earnestly and with respect for its people’s aspirations.

In summary, Sonam Wangchuk’s role in the Ladakh protests highlights a deep-rooted demand for political recognition, autonomy, and employment opportunities in the region. His hunger strike and activism catalyzed the movement but also stirred controversy. The situation remains tense with the government emphasizing law and order while activists continue to press for constitutional safeguards and statehood for Ladakh.

This upheaval underlines the complex dynamics of Ladakh’s political future and the urgent need for a sensitive, inclusive approach to resolve the issue peacefully, balancing development, autonomy, and stability for the region and its people.