Support grows for Sonam Wangchuk’s foot march advocating for Ladakh’s constitutional inclusion and environmental protection
Renowned researcher and environmental activist Sonam Wangchuk, accompanied by nearly 150 supporters, is on a foot march from Leh to Delhi, advocating for Ladakh’s inclusion in the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution, along with demands for environmental protection and safeguarding the culture and rights of the Himalayan region. The march is set to enter Himachal Pradesh through Mandi and will reach Sundernagar on September 22, 2024.
Himachal Pradesh’s resources are being exploited in an unscientific manner, causing concern. The skies are crisscrossed with power lines, tunnels run beneath the land, large water reservoirs occupy the middle ground, and there are towers and ongoing four-lane road constructions. Despite the state’s natural wealth, Himachal receives no tangible benefits in return, as the central government controls much of its water and forests. While it’s necessary to utilize resources for the nation, this should not come at the cost of local residents’ rights and livelihoods.
Himachal Pradesh urgently needs to protect its environment and the rights of its people. A separate policy for the sustainable development of the entire Himalayan region is essential, one that balances the conservation of local ecosystems and communities while contributing to the country’s overall progress.
The mismanagement of four-lane road construction and other infrastructure projects has led to substantial loss of life and property during Himachal’s monsoon season. Additionally, landslides and hill collapses are frequent, causing irreparable damage. The newly constructed Kiratpur-Manali four-lane road, including the Sundernagar bypass, has already started crumbling in several places within a month of completion. Local demands have long been neglected.
These issues are not confined to Himachal alone but resonate throughout the entire Himalayan region. Consequently, the Sarvjan Sanrakshan Samiti, along with Sundernagar-based social organizations, including Rotary Club, Ashray Samiti, Sakaar Society for Differently Abled Persons, Art of Living, Suket Old Age Home, Nayi Disha Nayi Soch, Vyapar Mandal, Sahayog Sanstha Mahadev, Divya Manav Jyoti Seva Trust, Padma Bhima Club, and various women’s and youth groups, have united to support Sonam Wangchuk’s march. They will welcome the marchers, advocating for Ladakh’s inclusion in the Sixth Schedule and the establishment of a democratic framework, upon their arrival in Sundernagar.
A reception will be held at 10:00 AM on Sunday, September 22, 2024, at Shukdev Vatika, Sundernagar, where attendees will learn about the pressing issues in the Himalayan region. Refreshments will be provided to the marchers, courtesy of Vivek Vasundhara and Ashray Samiti.
The journey will continue to Jadol, where a luncheon will be hosted for the marchers at 1:00 PM at Raja Hotel, organized by the Sarvjan Sanrakshan Samiti and Raja Hotel, before they proceed on their march to Delhi.
The Sarvjan Sanrakshan Samiti calls on the public to join in, support the march, and encourage the participants in their noble cause.
