'My Message of Peaceful Path Failed Today': Sonam Wangchuk Ends 15-Day Hunger Strike Amid Violent Protests In Ladakh

Leh: Following massive violence in Leh, Sonam Wangchuk ended his 15-day hunger strike, saying he did not want more trouble. Wangchuk had been on a hunger strike, demanding statehood for the Union Territory of Ladakh. The educationist, social reformer and environmentalist weighed in on the ongoing unrest in Ladakh, describing the region-wide bandh as a reflection of deep-rooted frustration among the youth.

“Despite the shutdown, large crowds took to the streets in protest, driven by years of unemployment and perceived government neglect,” Wangchuk said, adding, “Today, Ladakh was on bandh, but people came out in anger. Many have been unemployed for five years. This is a Gen-Z protest."

Appealing to the young protesters, he said, “I urge the youth not to resort to violence… I ask the government to be sensitive towards Ladakh.”

Wangchuk also took to X, stating, “Very sad events in Leh… My message of a peaceful path failed today. I appeal to the youth to please stop this nonsense. This only damages our cause.”

Sonam Wangchuk Responds to Ladakh Protest 

Reflecting on his role as a mentor to many in the region, Wangchuk added, “This is not the path I showed to the young people — this is their anger.”

Sonam Wangchuk Denies Political Hijacking in Ladakh Protest

Addressing concerns raised about possible political hijacking of the Ladakh protest, Sonam Wangchuk firmly dismissed the notion that any single councillor or political figure could have orchestrated such a massive public response.

“No councillor can influence so many people,” he said,

Wangchuk clarified that the movement has always maintained its independence from political parties. “We never allowed any political person to use our stage,” he asserted, adding that assigning blame to individuals would be unfair. “We can’t pinpoint responsibility on anyone.”

He warned against ignoring the incident, stating, “We can’t brush this aside—if we do, it will repeat itself.” Reflecting on the youth’s involvement, he expressed disappointment over the violent turn of events. “This was not the way the youth should have acted,” he said, attributing their actions to years of pent-up frustration.

“They’ve been left with only ‘kua’ (wells) and ‘khai’ (gorges) before them,” Wangchuk remarked metaphorically, highlighting the lack of opportunities and direction for Ladakhi youth.

Earlier in the day BJP Office in Leh was set on fire during a massive protest by the people of Ladakh demanding statehood and the inclusion of Ladakh under the Sixth Schedule. 

The protest turned into clashes with the police, and a CRPF vehicle was also set ablaze during the violence.

Protesters in Ladakh are demanding statehood and the inclusion of the region under the Sixth Schedule. The youth-led protest in Leh escalated into clashes with the police.

The protest is largely seen as growing tensions in Ladakh over employment, governance, and regional autonomy.