Indian environmental activist and education reformer Sonam Wangchuk has ended his 26 day indefinite hunger strike, saying the decision followed extensive negotiations with the government and growing concerns that the protest could trigger violence across the country.
According to The Times of India, Wangchuk announced on Friday, July 24, that he was ending the fast after receiving assurances from the government to continue discussions on several of his demands. He said the decision was taken after “long negotiations” and “in view of possible violence” that could arise if the protest continued.
Wangchuk said his demands include stronger constitutional safeguards for Ladakh, greater environmental protection for the Himalayan region and increased public consultation on development projects. He urged supporters to continue pursuing the movement through peaceful and democratic means.
The activist thanked those who had supported him throughout the protest, saying the hunger strike had succeeded in drawing national attention to the issues facing Ladakh. He stressed that ending the fast did not mean the campaign had ended, but marked the beginning of a new phase of engagement with the government.
Wangchuk’s protest attracted support from environmental groups, civil society organisations and citizens across India, with demonstrations held in several cities calling for greater protection of Ladakh’s ecology and local governance rights.
Government officials have not disclosed details of the assurances given but said dialogue with representatives from Ladakh would continue in the coming weeks.
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