Ladakh to Delhi march: Arrest of peaceful protesters: alarm over 'diminishing space' for dissent

By Vidya Bhushan Rawat*

Issues highlighted by Sonam Wangchuk are of critical importance, particularly the push to include Ladakh in the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution. This measure is essential to shield the region from the encroachment of opportunistic outsiders driven solely by profit motives.

Although the Sixth Schedule traditionally applies to certain northeastern states, there is a pressing need to expand its scope to encompass the Himalayan regions, including Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand. This expansion would help preserve the local communities, forests, lands, and waters of these regions, which are vital to the health of the rivers that sustain much of India.

The rich biodiversity and cultural significance of the Himalayas cannot be understated. These mountains are not only crucial for protecting our borders but also serve as a source of joy and pride for all Indians. However, it raises questions as to why we do not collectively feel compelled to safeguard these natural treasures. Why are we attempting to impose urban comforts on these pristine landscapes and, more importantly, why are we ignoring the locals' calls for protection?

Sonam Wangchuk's advocacy resonates with the demands of thousands of residents in Uttarakhand who wish to preserve their natural heritage. The unique challenges faced by these Himalayan states stem from a toxic blend of corporate interests and bureaucratic control, aiming to exploit local resources while marginalizing the very communities that sustain them.

Wangchuk's approach is rooted in the peaceful protest traditions of Buddhism, making the government's heavy-handed response even more surprising. Why should he be penalized for organizing a protest at Rajghat, a site symbolizing resistance against injustice? Recent actions taken by authorities, such as the arrest of peaceful protesters at the Haryana border during the march from Ladakh to Delhi, raise alarm over the diminishing democratic spaces for dissent.

Policies must reflect the needs and desires of local communities rather than the interests of bureaucrats in distant capitals

Protests are being branded as anti-national largely due to a narrative pushed by corporations through their compromised media outlets, all focusing on exploiting the Himalayan regions for profit. It's crucial for us to unite in affirming that the Himalayas and their rivers are sacred and should not be sources of commercial gain. The climate crisis manifested by extreme weather, hostile summers, and catastrophic floods serves as a stark reminder of our reckless exploitation of nature.

These consequences underscore the urgent need to protect our natural heritage from those who view it solely through the lens of profit. The local populations in the Himalayas, who have historically taken care of these environments, must be included in all decision-making processes affecting their lands. It's vital that policies reflect the needs and desires of these communities rather than the interests of bureaucrats in distant capitals.

The significant devastation experienced in Himachal Pradesh last year and the crises in Uttarakhand during monsoon season serve as warnings for all of us. Without a commitment to environmental stewardship, we risk facing the unpredictable wrath of nature. The interests of big business cannot hold up against the natural calamities that are fodder for climate change.

As we proceed, it is essential to ensure that development initiatives in the Himalayan region stem from local needs and receive genuine community approval, fostering a balanced relationship with the environment.

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*Human rights defender

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