Kohima, July 18: Nagaland-based social activist and writer Robert N. Solo has appealed to the Government of India to engage in dialogue with climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, warning that allowing his prolonged hunger strike to deteriorate into a humanitarian crisis would send the wrong message on environmental protection and democratic engagement.

In a statement, Solo said Wangchuk’s fast reflects his commitment to drawing attention to the growing threats posed by climate change, particularly in the ecologically fragile Himalayan region.

“The world cannot allow climate activist Sonam Wangchuk to die while fasting due to governmental inaction,” Solo said, urging authorities to respond through “peaceful, respectful and constructive dialogue.”

He said the Himalayan ecosystem, whose glaciers feed many of India’s major rivers, is increasingly threatened by rising temperatures, erratic rainfall, floods and biodiversity loss, making environmental protection a matter of national and global importance.

While acknowledging that governments may not agree with every demand raised by protesters, Solo said democratic institutions have a responsibility to safeguard lives and engage peacefully with citizens raising issues of public concern.

He also called on the international community, scientists and civil society organisations to support constructive dialogue on climate action, saying environmental challenges require cooperation beyond political boundaries.

Solo said differences over policy should be resolved through evidence-based discussions and democratic processes rather than allowing a peaceful protest to escalate into a humanitarian emergency.

The Kohima-based activist, who has been involved in environmental and public policy advocacy in Nagaland, said protecting human life and addressing climate concerns should go hand in hand, adding that the issues raised by environmental defenders deserve serious consideration.