Sonam Wangchuk's 'Fast Unto Death' Enters Day 14 Amid Protests: What Ladakhis Want From Modi Govt

Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk is leading mass protests in Ladakh with a fast unto death. Nearly 30,000 locals who constitute 10 percent of Ladakh’s population reportedly hit the road last month to protest against the Modi government. Their demands include restoring statehood and giving tribal status to Ladakh. Wangchuk, who last month announced a 21-day fast, claimed that the union territory tag has made Ladakh vulnerable to industrial exploitation which will devastate the fragile ecosystem of the Himalayan region. The climate activist also alleged Chinese encroachment on northern areas of Ladakh and said he has planned a border march to back his claims.