Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk cancels march to LAC, citing govt ‘suppression’ and ‘overreaction’

Activist Sonam Wangchuk has cancelled his planned border march on Sunday (Apr 7) after the Ladakh administration imposed restrictions under Section 144 and enforced internet curbs in the region. Wangchuk had intended to lead a march to the Line of Actual Control (LAC) at the Chungathung border area to demonstrate China's land encroachment since 2020.

Expressing concerns about potential clashes and riots, the activist, who advocates for Ladakh Union Territory's statehood and 6th Schedule status, cited apprehensions about the government's "overreaction."

"There may be attempts to upset this peaceful agitation and then blame it for violence and make it an excuse to disallow the peaceful protests in Ladakh," said Wangchuk.

He said the agitation in Ladakh has created awareness among people across the country, and the government fears that the border march may impact elections and their vote bank. "So they decided to stop me from marching to the border even at the cost of disturbing peace," he said.

Wangchuk called the government's control measures as "madness". "We are concerned about its impact on national security and peace in the region and, therefore, we have decided to withdraw the march," said Wangchuk.

Previously, Wangchuk stated that if the government intervenes to halt the march, it would strongly suggest that the government wants to conceal the extent of land acquisition by China in Ladakh.

"Our objective is already achieved, which was to make the country aware about what's happening in Ladakh and its pastures, what's happened with Indian land on the border," said Wangchuk.

Also read: WATCH | Ladakh shepherds stand firm against Chinese troops, draw applause from Indian netizens

Section 144 was enforced in Leh following Wangchuk's declaration of the 'Pashmina march' on April 7 along the Line of Actual Control (LAC). Section 144 forbids the assembly of more than four individuals in a public location. Wangchuk criticised the decision, claiming that the protests had been nonviolent and did not require such harsh measures.

District Magistrate Santosh Sukhadeve defended the imposition of Section 144, citing that there were reliable indications of apprehension of breach of peace and public tranquillity in the district.

“Whereas, it is desirable that any breach of peace, disturbance to public tranquillity or danger to human life be immediately prevented. Therefore, 1, Santosh Sukhadeve, IAS, District Magistrate, Leh satisfied with the report of Sr. Superintendent of Police, Leh and in the exercise of powers vested in me under Section 144 of CrPC, 1973.”

Sonam Wangchuk just completed a 21-day fast, relying exclusively on salt and water. He was fasting for Ladakh to be awarded statehood and being listed in the Sixth Schedule.

(With inputs from agencies)