‘Talks are a give-and-take’: Sonam Wangchuk on 6th schedule, statehood and being ‘flexible’

In his first public remarks after spending nearly six months in custody, Ladakhi activist and education reformist Sonam Wangchuk stated on Tuesday that both sides must remain flexible to ensure a meaningful and constructive dialogue regarding demands in Ladakh for statehood and sixth schedule protections. 

During Monday’s protests in Leh and Kargil, the Leh Apex Body (LAB) and Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA) demanded that the Centre resume the next round of talks. Wangchuk was released on Saturday (March 14) after the Centre revoked charges against him under the National Security Act (NSA) in an effort to foster an “environment of peace, stability, and mutual trust” for “meaningful dialogue” in Ladakh.

During the press conference on Tuesday, Wangchuk emphasised the necessity of compromise to move forward. 

“I’m sure talks are a give-and-take process. Both sides have to be flexible. I hope to go back to Ladakh. I am currently reorienting myself. I hope to consult our leaders of Leh Apex Body and KDA (Kargil Democratic Alliance), and hope that we will have great things to share with you in the coming times,” he said.

At the press conference in Delhi, Wangchuk was accompanied by his wife, Gitanjali Angmo, and Congress Rajya Sabha MP Vivek Tanka, who provided the activist with legal assistance during his detention. 

Wangchuk hinted that Ladakhi stakeholders might be willing to moderate their stance. Addressing rumours that the Central government may favour protection under Article 371 rather than granting Sixth Schedule status, he noted that he would first discuss the matter with local leaders.

“But overall, the two main issues are safeguards under the sixth schedule and statehood or restoration of democracy. Therefore, if not both, we would hope for one… That’s how we want to carry forward (the talks),” he explained.

When asked by Newslaundry if this shift should be interpreted as a ‘climbdown’ from their original twin demands, Wangchuk denied the characterisation, reiterating that flexibility is a functional necessity for any successful negotiation.

Wangchuk also touched on the role of the Supreme Court, the importance of peaceful protest, and whether he intends to serve as the region's lead negotiator. 

Watch. 

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