Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) President Senior Advocate Vikas Singh on July 16, 2026, appealed to activist Sonam Wangchuk to end his indefinite hunger strike, stating that the country needs him 'alive, working, and leading us from the front.' Singh made the remarks during a press conference in New Delhi, emphasizing that Wangchuk's activism is crucial for addressing issues in Ladakh.
Singh criticized the current political climate, saying the 'moral fiber of today's politicians has diminished,' and urged Wangchuk to reconsider his protest. Wangchuk began his hunger strike on July 6, 2026, demanding statehood for Ladakh and implementation of the Sixth Schedule to protect the region's cultural and environmental interests.
The SCBA president's appeal comes amid growing support for Wangchuk from various civil society groups. Wangchuk, known for his work in education and environmental conservation in Ladakh, has been on a hunger strike since July 6, 2026, at the Jantar Mantar in New Delhi. His demands include constitutional safeguards for Ladakh's unique identity and sustainable development.
As of July 16, 2026, Wangchuk's health remains stable, but doctors have advised him to end the fast. The central government has not yet responded to his demands, but Singh's intervention highlights the legal community's concern for Wangchuk's well-being and the broader issues in Ladakh.
