Ladakh observed the 25th death anniversary of the late Aba Sonam Wangyal, a trailblazing Ladakhi pioneer and former minister. The commemorative event took place at the Sonam Wangyal Memorial Park/Stupa, featuring prayers led by a monk from Spituk Monastery and the offering of traditional Khatags on November 10.

LAHDC Leh organized the event. The welcome address was delivered by Ven. Konchok Tsephel, Nominated Councillor LAHDC Leh, and Padma Shri awardee Morup Namgyal, who shared insights into the life history of Aba Sonam Wangyal. A short film documenting his contributions was screened, and attendees received a book titled ‘Remembering the Life of Shri Sonam Wangyal 1925-1998.’ 

CEC, LAHDC Leh Tashi Gyalson, presided as the chief guest, with Member of Parliament, Ladakh Jamyang Tsering Namgyal, as the guest of honor. The ceremony was attended by various dignitaries, including Dy Chairman Tsering Angchuk; Executive Councillor Tashi Namgyal Yakzee; Executive Councillor Ghulam Mehdi; Councillors of LAHDC Leh, BDC Chairpersons, Former CEC Gyal P Wangyal, Former Ministers, District Officers, Various Scholars, Heads of Political and Religious Organizations, Family, Relatives, and well-wishers.

CEC Tashi Gyalson lauded Aba Sonam Wangyal as a visionary leader and an inspiration for social welfare advocates. He urged the younger generation to adopt Wangyal's principles and methods while commending the Sonam Wangyal Memorial Committee and the family for their dedicated commemoration over the past 24 years.

MP Ladakh, Jamyang Tsering Namgyal, remembered Aba Sonam Wangyal for his boldness, vision, intellect, determination, and principled approach. He emphasized the importance of acknowledging Wangyal's contributions to Ladakh's development and encouraged the younger generation to learn about his work.

President, Sonam Wangyal Memorial Committee, PT Kunzang, announced free tuition for JNV test preparation for merit-cum-poor students. He emphasized the need to preserve Aba Sonam Wangyal's legacy in contemporary times.

Gyal P Wangyal expressed gratitude on behalf of the family, acknowledging the attendees and organizers.

The late Sonam Wangyal, born on January 26, 1925, faced hardships in his youth but emerged as a key figure in Ladakh's political landscape. His contributions included addressing social and economic injustices, abolishing forced labor, and alleviating the burden of debt on Ladakhi people. His efforts played a pivotal role in Ladakh gaining Scheduled Tribe status.

Sonam Wangyal's enduring legacy includes his hunger strikes in 1982 and 1984, advocating for Ladakh's Scheduled Tribe status, which was eventually granted in 1989. Despite facing arrests and imprisonment, Aba Sonam Wangyal remained committed to economic justice, democratic rights, and educational opportunities for Ladakhi citizens. Aba Sonam Wangyal's legacy lives on, celebrated on the 25th anniversary of his passing, as Ladakh pays tribute to a man whose contributions continue to shape the region's social, economic, and political landscape.