Sonam Wangchuk Ends Hunger Strike, Issues Appeal To 'Gen-Z' Protestors In Leh: 'Violence Is Not The Path'

As protests in Leh escalated into clashes, activist Sonam Wangchuk issued an appeal to the youth to not resort to the path of violence. Ending his fast on Wednesday, Wangchuk said that the protests were

a 'Gen-Z revolution', since the young people were agitated over unemployment, and their "democratic rights being snatched".In a video on social media platform X, Sonam Wangchuk said, "Today, on the 15th day of our fast, I am deeply saddened to report that widespread violence and vandalism erupted in Leh city. Several offices and police vehicles were set on fire. Yesterday, two of those who had been on a 35-day fast here had to be taken to the hospital in very critical condition. This sparked widespread anger, and a complete shutdown was declared across Leh today. Thousands of young people came out. Some people think they were our supporters. The entire Leh is our supporter. But this was a Gen-Z revolution."Wangchuk remarked that the youth of Leh had been "unemployed for the last 5 years" and excluded from jobs, which had become a "recipe for social unrest." However, he asserted that violence was not the correct path."There's no democratic platform here today. The Sixth Schedule, which was announced and promised, hasn't been heeded. However, as of now, I appeal to the young generation of Ladakh not to follow this path of violence because it thwarts my five years of efforts. I've been fasting for so many years, marching peacefully, and then resorting to violence; this is not our path," he said. "I request the young generation to approach the government through peace. I want the government to listen to the message of peace. When they ignore peaceful protests and marches, such situations arise. I would urge the government to be sensitive about Ladakh and urge the younger generation to follow the path of peace. This (violence) path is not my path. It is a result of their anger. But this is not the time to vent their anger. It is time to have a calm, cool conversation with the government," the activist added.

Also Read: What's Behind Ladakh's Youth Protests and Sonam Wangchuk's Agitation | EXPLAINED

Ladakh protests

Ladakh is in turmoil as simmering discontent spilled onto the streets of Leh, with massive protests, shutdowns, and clashes between police and demonstrators. The agitation, intensified by Wangchuk's hunger strike, turned violent after a group of youths allegedly pelted stones and police resorted to firing teargas shells.Protestors also torched a security vehicle outside the BJP office in Leh, an official said, adding that additional forces have been deployed to restore order. The District Magistrate of Leh has imposed Section 163 of the BNS, banning gatherings of five or more, processions without approval, and statements that may disturb public peace.