Climate Activist Detained Following Deadly Protests in Himalayan Region
LEH, LADAKH – Prominent climate activist and educator Sonam Wangchuk was arrested on Friday under the stringent National Security Act (NSA) and subsequently shifted to a jail in Rajasthan’s Jodhpur, following violent protests in Ladakh that left four people dead and dozens injured.
Key Arrest Details
Wangchuk was detained on Friday before a scheduled news briefing, marking a significant escalation in the government’s response to the ongoing unrest in the strategically important Himalayan territory.
Controversial Police Allegations Surface
Ladakh police have made serious allegations against the 59-year-old activist, with authorities claiming he incited the violent demonstrations. The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) blamed Wangchuk for instigating the unrest and cancelled the FCRA registration of SECMOL, his educational organization.
Political Opposition Condemns Arrest
Congress leader Jairam Ramesh condemned the arrest, tweeting: “The Indian National Congress condemns the arrest of noted environmentalist and educationist Sonam Wangchuk under the National Security Act. This has been done to divert attention and responsibility from the BJP’s abysmal failure to maintain law and order”.
Security Measures Intensified
Mobile internet services have been suspended in Leh following Wangchuk’s arrest, as authorities work to maintain control in the region. The situation remains tense with heightened security presence across the territory.
Violence Erupts During Statehood Protests
The deadly protests on September 24, 2025, stemmed from long-standing demands by Ladakhis for:
Full statehood for the union territory
Inclusion under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution for tribal protection
Additional Lok Sabha seats for better representation
Protection of local resources and employment opportunities
The protest on Wednesday turned violent after demonstrators clashed with officers, resulting in four dead and dozens injured.
Tourism Industry Affected
The unrest has impacted the region’s tourism sector, with organizers cancelling the annual Ladakh Festival on Wednesday due to the deteriorating security situation.
Background: Five Years of Peaceful Agitation
Wangchuk has been leading a peaceful agitation for statehood and autonomy for Ladakh for nearly five years, making this latest development a significant shift in the nature of the movement.
Current Status
The activist remains under 24×7 surveillance in Jodhpur jail as tensions continue to simmer in the region. The arrest has sparked nationwide debate about the handling of legitimate political demands and the use of anti-terror legislation against activists.
