In a significant turn of events, renowned climate activist and educational innovator Sonam Wangchuk has reportedly been arrested in Leh, Ladakh. This detention comes during a period of heightened social and political unrest in the region, where Mr. Wangchuk has been a leading voice advocating for the unique environmental and cultural preservation of Ladakh.
The arrest is closely linked to ongoing large-scale protests and agitations led by various local bodies, including the Leh Apex Body and the Kargil Democratic Alliance. These groups have been tirelessly demanding statehood for Ladakh and the implementation of Sixth Schedule status under the Indian Constitution, aiming to safeguard the fragile ecosystem and indigenous culture of the Himalayan region. Mr. Wangchuk has been particularly vocal about the need for environmental protection against industrial exploitation and has previously undertaken hunger strikes to highlight these critical issues.
The local authorities, under the supervision of Ladakh DGP S.D. Singh Jamwal, are managing the unfolding situation. The recent protests in Leh underscore the community’s resolve in pursuing their demands, particularly concerning the constitutional protections for their land and identity. This report provides an essential update on the circumstances surrounding the activist’s arrest and the broader context of the powerful movement for Ladakh’s future.