GT News Service
Jammu, April 5
Just before the “Pashmina March” led by Sonam Wangchuk was set to happen, the Ladakh authorities put a rule in place in Leh to limit how much people can move around. This was done because they were worried about possible disturbances and wanted to keep the peace.
The order from the District Magistrate said that no one can hold a march, rally, or procession without getting permission first. Also, no one can use loudspeakers or gather in public without approval. The order also says that people shouldn’t say things that could upset the peace or cause problems with the law.
PEACEFUL LADAKH IS VERY CONFUSED!
After 31 days of extremely peaceful prayers & fasts…
Suddenly peace initiatives of the administration sounds more dangerous than anything !PEACE AT ANY COST !!?#SaveLadakh #SAVEHIMALAYAS #SaveGlaciers #6thSchedule #SupportSonamWangchuk pic.twitter.com/ZRbPZ3V8Kv
— Sonam Wangchuk (@Wangchuk66) April 5, 2024
Sonam Wangchuk, who is known for his work on climate and education, thinks the authorities are overreacting by putting these restrictions in place. He compares his march to Gandhi’s Dandi march, which was about raising awareness. Wangchuk’s march is to tell people about the issues faced by shepherds in Ladakh, whose grazing lands are being taken by big companies. He believes it’s important for people to know about this and stand together.
Sonam Wangchuk, after ending his hunger strike, planned a march to the Line of Actual Control (LAC) to highlight Chinese encroachments and land acquisitions by corporations. This march, initially called the “Border March,” was later renamed the “Pashmina March.” The march aims to draw attention to the shrinking grazing lands in Ladakh, which are crucial for producing the region’s famous Pashmina wool. This wool is unique because it’s extremely fine and entirely handcrafted.
Wangchuk draws a parallel between the Pashmina March and Gandhi’s Dandi March, emphasizing the importance of raising awareness about local issues. The march will head towards Changthang, a high-altitude region in Ladakh known for its harsh climate, to spotlight the challenges faced by local shepherds due to land acquisition by large businesses and foreign incursions. The journey to Changthang is difficult due to its cold, dry, and rugged terror.
