Wangchuk Calls Government’s Accusations a ‘Scapegoat Tactic’

Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk has responded sharply to accusations from the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) that he instigated violent protests in Ladakh. He labeled the claims a “scapegoat tactic,” intended to distract from the underlying issues facing the region. The violence, which erupted on September 13, resulted in four deaths and over 80 injuries, including 40 police personnel, marking the most severe unrest in Ladakh since 1989.

Wangchuk expressed his readiness to face arrest under the stringent Public Safety Act (PSA), stating, “To say it was instigated by me…is to find a scapegoat, rather than addressing the core of the problem.” He emphasized the need for wisdom rather than cleverness to navigate the frustrations of the youth in Ladakh, who he believes are increasingly disillusioned.

Context of the Unrest

The recent protests stem from long-standing grievances, particularly the frustrations of young people facing unemployment and unfulfilled promises from the government. Wangchuk has been at the forefront of a peaceful movement advocating for statehood and constitutional protections for Ladakh, which he argues remain unmet after five years of dialogue.

He criticized the government for promoting partial job reservations as success while ignoring key demands related to statehood and the extension of the Sixth Schedule to protect Ladakh’s tribal identity and fragile environment. “The anger is a result of six years of unemployment and unmet promises,” he told reporters.

Following the escalation of violence, Wangchuk suspended his hunger strike, which he had initiated on September 10, 2023, to push for the inclusion of Ladakh in the Sixth Schedule and for statehood. Authorities imposed a curfew in Leh to prevent further unrest as protests turned violent, with incidents of arson and vandalism reported.

Government Response and Accusations

The MHA attributed the violence to “provocative statements” made by Wangchuk and others dissatisfied with the progress of ongoing talks between the government and local groups. Officials stated that, aside from a few incidents early on September 13, the situation was under control by 16:00. They urged citizens to refrain from spreading provocative content on social media.

“It is well known that the Government of India has been actively engaged with the Leh Apex Body and Kargil Democratic Alliance,” the ministry stated, emphasizing ongoing dialogue efforts.

Looking forward, the next High Powered Committee meeting has been scheduled for October 6, 2023, with additional discussions planned on September 25 and 26 with Ladakhi leaders. The Union territory’s Lieutenant Governor, Kavinder Gupta, condemned the violence as “heart-wrenching” and characterized it as a result of a conspiracy, urging accountability for those responsible.

As tensions continue, the situation in Ladakh remains fluid, with both sides deeply entrenched in their positions. Wangchuk’s call for direct engagement with the government reflects a broader demand for meaningful dialogue to address the region’s pressing concerns.