Activists Rally for Climate Campaigner Wangchuk

Social activist Medha Patkar condemned the detention of climate activist Sonam Wangchuk and his supporters. Patkar announced a day-long fast in solidarity and called for public support. The National Alliance of People's Movements held a press conference addressing Wangchuk's detention and supporting the demands of the 'Padyatris.'

Social activist Medha Patkar on Tuesday condemned the detention of climate activist Sonam Wangchuk and his supporters, drawing parallels to the treatment of farmers during their protests.

Labeling the situation a conspiracy, Patkar announced a day-long fast on Wednesday in solidarity with Wangchuk and called for public support.

Environmentalists, climate experts, and social activists convened at the Press Club under the National Alliance of People's Movements banner to discuss Wangchuk's detention. They backed the 'Padyatris' demands, including Ladakh statehood and Sixth Schedule status.

Patkar alleged that the government preemptively issued prohibitory orders instead of engaging in dialogue with the marchers. She stated the Prime Minister's Office and the Home Ministry had prior knowledge of their march.

The press conference also highlighted the detention of Ladakh political activist Sajjad Kargili, who was scheduled to speak at JNU about Ladakh's issues.

Activists argued that excuses related to the Haryana elections and Waqf Board controversy were used to prevent the 'Padyatris' from entering the city. They called for Wangchuk's release and demanded their 'Padyatra' to Rajghat be allowed.

Environmentalists like Prafulla Samantara and climate experts like Soumya Dutta also spoke at the press conference. Around 120 people from Ladakh, including Wangchuk, were marching to the national capital to demand Sixth Schedule status when detained.

Wangchuk leads the 'Delhi Chalo Padyatra,' which started a month ago from Leh.

(With inputs from agencies.)