Climate Activist's Hunger Strike Sparks Legal Battle Over Protest Rights in Delhi

AISA members were detained during a protest supporting climate activist Sonam Wangchuk’s call for Ladakh's Sixth Schedule status. The Delhi High Court is addressing a plea for a peaceful protest at Jantar Mantar. The Leh Apex Body asserts assembly and speech as constitutional rights. Legal responses are due October 16, 2024.

The Delhi Police detained members of the All India Students Association (AISA) on Sunday during a protest held at Ladakh Bhawan. The protest aimed to support climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, who seeks constitutional safeguards for Ladakh, including its inclusion under the Sixth Schedule and regional statehood.

Wangchuk initiated an indefinite hunger strike on October 5 to spotlight these demands, receiving backing from both the Leh Apex Body and the Kargil Democratic Alliance. Their objective is to ensure protection for Ladakh's land and cultural identity, pressing the government for urgent consultations.

The Delhi High Court has intervened, issuing a notice for responses from relevant authorities, following a plea by the Leh Apex Body. The plea requests permission for a peaceful protest at Jantar Mantar from October 8 to 23, 2024. A dedicated hearing is set for October 22, and respondents have until October 16 to reply.

Despite opposition from Solicitor General Tushar Mehta on behalf of the Delhi Police, the Leh Apex Body reminded the court of the fundamental right to peaceful assembly and free speech. The group seeks official approval for Wangchuk and others to demonstrate their resolve at a suitable location, emphasizing non-violence as central to their initiative.

(With inputs from agencies.)