Following violent incidents in Ladakh, climate activist Sonam Wangchuk has been arrested under the National Security Act (NSA) and moved to Jodhpur Central Jail, where he is under 24-hour CCTV surveillance. This action comes after protests demanding statehood and constitutional safeguards resulted in casualties. Asaram Bapu is also incarcerated in the same jail, but is kept in a different ward.
The Ladakh administration has responded to the unrest by suspending mobile internet services in the Leh district. Wangchuk’s arrest came unexpectedly, as he was due to address a press conference. When he failed to appear, organizers became alarmed and the arrest was later confirmed.
Despite Wangchuk’s absence, the press conference proceeded, acknowledging the role of uncontrolled youth in the violence but denying any foreign involvement. The Leh Apex Body (LAB) co-chair, Chering Dorje, called for a judicial investigation into the deaths and dismissed any outside influence.
Dorje stated that law enforcement personnel opened fire on protestors without utilizing non-lethal methods. He also mentioned the potential for escalating the movement if the government does not engage in timely discussions, while reiterating the peaceful nature of their actions.
Wangchuk had initiated a hunger strike to urge dialogue, which later led to an invitation from the Centre. A sense of unease has settled over the region, with a curfew in effect and no new incidents reported.
The curfew was imposed after the outbreak of violence. The protests were focused on demanding statehood and extension of the Sixth Schedule. The authorities have indicated that the security situation is under control and that restrictions may be eased to facilitate access to essentials.
Over 50 people have been detained, and restrictions on gatherings have been implemented. A high-level team from the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) arrived in Leh to assess the situation.
Wangchuk’s arrest occurred after his organization’s FCRA license was revoked due to alleged financial irregularities. Opposition leaders have strongly criticized the government’s handling of the situation, blaming the central government.
Wangchuk’s wife accused the government of spreading misinformation and unfairly targeting her husband. She criticized the government’s actions and questioned its principles. Some opposition parties have characterized the arrest as a suppression of dissent.
Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah stated the arrest was ‘unfortunate,’ adding that it violated commitments. A Congress leader also denounced the arrest via social media.