Environmentalist and educationist Sonam Wangchuk has expressed disappointment over the recent meeting with the Centre on issues concerning Ladakh. In a video shared on social media platform X, Wangchuk took a dig at the outcome of the meeting and announced a padyatra in Ladakh from September 19 to 24.
Wangchuk said that people in Ladakh are seeking a clear assurance from the Centre on their long-standing demands, particularly regarding democratic representation, local decision-making powers and protection of land and the environment.
‘We Need an Assurance From the Centre’: Sonam Wangchuk
In his video message, Wangchuk recalled the protests held at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar and said he had come to the national capital to discuss Ladakh’s issues with the Union Home Ministry.
LADAKH CALLING THE NATION !
— Sonam Wangchuk (@Wangchuk66) September 11, 2026
Leh Chalo Andolan, in support of Ladakh & in memory of our Martyrs.
Ladakh has always stood for the nation,
Now it's the nation's turn to save Ladakh! pic.twitter.com/jzcQB20Jar
However, he said the meeting did not produce any concrete outcome.
Wangchuk said Ladakhis have several demands, including the establishment of a democratic structure and a legislative assembly so that local people can participate in decisions affecting the region.
He also stressed that people in Ladakh should have greater powers to take decisions concerning land, environment and other local matters.
According to Wangchuk, the protesters were expecting the government to provide a reasonable assurance that no major administrative decisions would be taken that could significantly alter the character of Ladakh until an appropriate democratic framework is established.
Sonam Wangchuk Appeals for Public Support
Wangchuk appealed to people to come forward and support the movement. He announced that a large padyatra will be organised in Ladakh between September 19 and 24.
He said that if the Centre provides an assurance during this period, the march would be remembered in honour of those who lost their lives for Ladakh’s cause.
However, Wangchuk warned that if there is still no response from the Centre, a larger protest could follow.
Centre Holds Meeting With Ladakh Representatives
The latest developments came after the Centre held a meeting with representatives of local organisations from Ladakh on Wednesday.
During the meeting, the Centre reportedly declined, for the time being, the demand to make Ladakh a state or a Union Territory with a legislature.
Instead, the Union Home Ministry asked Ladakh’s representatives to discuss around eight to ten key issues related to the proposed political structure before moving ahead with the draft framework under Article 371.
The Centre and Ladakh’s leadership have also agreed to work towards a unique administrative model that could provide an elected body with legislative, executive and financial powers.
What Are Ladakh’s Main Demands?
Since Ladakh became a separate Union Territory in 2019, demands for greater political representation and constitutional safeguards have remained a major issue in the region.
Ladakhi groups have been seeking stronger protection for land rights, the environment, employment and local representation. The demand for a legislative assembly and greater decision-making powers has also remained central to the movement.
Sonam Wangchuk has been among the prominent voices advocating for these demands. His latest announcement of a padyatra indicates that pressure on the Centre over Ladakh’s political and constitutional future is likely to continue.
