Archive · 27 Jul 2026
Wangchuk Asserts Gandhi's Methods Relevant in Ladakh Protests
Sonam Wangchuk, a climate activist, recently led a big protest in Ladakh.
He went on a hunger strike for 26 days to demand changes in how exams are conducted and to stop corruption.
The government agreed to some of his demands, like making a committee for exam reforms and letting go of a minister.
Wangchuk says that peaceful protests, like those inspired by Mahatma Gandhi, can still work today.
He believes that even though the government might not always listen right away, peaceful protests can eventually make a difference.
He hopes that this protest will lead to better governance and less fear and corruption in India.
Sonam Wangchuk led a 36-day student protest in Ladakh, ending with the resignation of Union education minister Dharmendra Pradhan.
Wangchuk's 26-day hunger strike concluded when Union ministers Jitendra Singh and J P Nadda helped him break his fast.
The protest demanded reforms in the National Testing Agency and withdrawal of cases against peaceful protesters.
Wangchuk emphasized the relevance of Gandhi's non-violent resistance methods in achieving the protest's goals.
The activist hopes for better governance, an end to fear and corruption, and a renewed trust between the government and its people.
- Who
- Sonam Wangchuk, students, Union ministers Jitendra Singh and J P Nadda
- What
- Successful student-led protests in Ladakh, ending with the resignation of Union education minister Dharmendra Pradhan
- When
- Protests ended on Saturday, fast ended on Thursday night
- Where
- Ladakh, Delhi
- Why
- To demand reforms in the National Testing Agency and address issues of governance and corruption
Protesters and Supporters
Government and Critics
Significance of Union Ministers Breaking Fast
Protesters and Supporters
Union ministers breaking the fast symbolizes the Centre's acceptance of demands, aligning with Ladakhi traditions.
Government and Critics
Critics view the presence of Union ministers as political endorsement rather than a traditional gesture.
Effectiveness of Non-Violent Protests
Protesters and Supporters
Non-violent resistance can melt the toughest hearts and is effective against any government.
Government and Critics
Some believe such tactics would not work on the current government.
- Protest Duration
- 36 days
- Fast Duration
- 26 days
- Key Demands Accepted
- Resignation of Dharmendra Pradhan, committee for NTA reforms, withdrawal of cases against protesters
- Protest Leaders
- Sonam Wangchuk, Cockroach Janta Party (CJP)
- Government Representatives
- Jitendra Singh, J P Nadda
