‘Gen Z Uprising’ in Ladakh: Sonam Wangchuk Condemns Violence, Says 3–4 Protesters Feared Dead
Activist Sonam Wangchuk on Wednesday stated that 3 to 4 protesters are feared dead during the ongoing demonstrations in Ladakh, which he described as a “Gen Z uprising.” He warned that unemployment and the erosion of constitutional rights have created conditions ripe for social unrest.
The agitation, demanding statehood and inclusion under the Sixth Schedule, turned violent on Wednesday. This escalation followed the collapse of two elderly protesters who had been on hunger strike since Tuesday. In response, demonstrators set a BJP office and a security vehicle on fire.
“Today, on the 15th day of our fast, I am deeply saddened to report widespread violence and vandalism in Leh. Several offices and police vehicles were torched. Yesterday, two people who had been fasting for 35 days were rushed to the hospital in critical condition. That incident sparked widespread anger, leading to a complete shutdown across Leh today,” Wangchuk said.
The ‘Gen Z Uprising’
“Thousands of young people took to the streets. Some think they were just our supporters, but in truth, the entire Leh community stands behind us. This is a Gen Z uprising. These youths have been unemployed for five years, denied jobs, and stripped of their democratic rights. I’ve always said that this is the recipe for unrest: leaving the young unemployed while taking away their constitutional protections. The Sixth Schedule, which was promised, remains unfulfilled,” he added.
Wangchuk urged the younger generation to avoid violence, stressing that it undermines his years of peaceful efforts.
“I have been fasting and marching peacefully for so many years. Resorting to violence is not our path. I appeal to the youth to seek dialogue with the government through peace,” he said.
He also called on the government to pay attention to Ladakh’s grievances.
“When peaceful protests and marches are ignored, situations like this arise. I urge the government to act with sensitivity toward Ladakh and appeal to the younger generation to remain committed to non-violence,” he said.
