LG Saxena says Wangchuk may revisit ‘Cockroach Party’ stand

In a significant political development, Ladakh LG V K Saxena disclosed details of his “candid interaction” with climate activist Sonam Wangchuk on Tuesday, saying the activist acknowledged that comparing Ladakh with Manipur was an “error of judgement” and indicated he could revisit his position on the contentious “Cockroach Party” narrative.

LG Ladakh Saxena wrote on X; “Had a candid exchange with Sonam Wangchuk and his wife Gitanjali Angmo in the backdrop of the constructive dialogue in the Union Home Ministry. We agreed that an  air of positivity, both in terms of development initiatives and political dialogue, needs to be maintained”.

“I cautioned Shri Wangchuk to abjure from weaving a misleading and provocative narrative, which vitiates public discourse”.

“Democratic expression must not be taken as license for fabricating falsehoods and rabble rousing. He accepted that comparing the situation of Ladakh with Manipur was an error of judgement. He also said that he was unsure of the origins of the Cockroach Party and would study the motivations of its founders and revisit his stand, if necessary”, the LG wrote.

“I also highlighted, that repeated rallies and protests, despite positive developments initiated by the Centre, will have a negative impact on economic activities in the tourism space, which is the backbone of Ladakh”.

“Wangchuk appreciated the positive development initiatives like Him Sarovar project, restoration of Igoo Phey Canal, construction of Mahe – Topko Canal and massive plantation drives, undertaken in the recent days”, he added.