Ladakh L-G Responds to Activist’s Concerns about Social Division
NEW DELHI: Vinai Kumar Saxena, the Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, addressed activist Sonam Wangchuk, urging him to refrain from spreading what he termed a “misleading and provocative narrative” regarding the situation in the Union Territory. This response comes after Wangchuk expressed worries about potential social divisions in Ladakh, similar to those seen in Manipur, and showed his support for a group he labeled as the “Cockroach Janta Party.”
Saxena explained that he had a direct conversation with both Wangchuk and his wife, Gitanjali Angmo, who has been supportive during Wangchuk’s recent struggles with the authorities. According to Saxena, democratic expression should not be used as a justification for misinformation. He noted that Wangchuk admitted that equating Ladakh’s situation with that of Manipur was a misjudgment. Wangchuk also expressed his intention to investigate the origins of the Cockroach Janta Party and reassess his views if needed.
In his statement, Saxena conveyed that he encouraged Wangchuk to avoid narratives that could mislead the public, stressing the importance of maintaining constructive dialogue. He highlighted that ongoing protests, despite the positive initiatives undertaken by the government, could harm economic activity in Ladakh, particularly in tourism, which is vital for the region.
Saxena pointed out that Wangchuk acknowledged the positive steps taken, such as the Him Sarovar project, the restoration of the Igoo Phey Canal, the construction of the Mahe-Topko Canal, and large-scale plantation efforts.
Wangchuk recently stated that while his release was meant to foster trust, the current reality on the ground seemed different, marking a week filled with conflicts and negativity. He had expressed concerns that Ladakh was drifting toward a situation similar to Manipur.
