Climate Activist Sonam Wangchuk Detained Alongside 120 Others While Marching to Delhi

Approximately 120 individuals from Ladakh, including climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, were detained by Delhi Police at the city's border. They were marching to demand sixth schedule status for the Union Territory. Police sources indicated that those detained would be taken to various police stations along the city border. Notably, women participating in the march were not detained due to prohibitory orders against gatherings.

Wangchuk shared a post on Instagram just before his detention, showing visuals of their buses being stopped at the Delhi border amidst a significant police presence. In the video, he was seen interacting with police officials. He mentioned that several vehicles from Delhi and Haryana Police accompanied their buses, initially giving the impression of an escort.

Prohibitory Orders and Security Measures

However, as they neared the capital, it became evident they were being detained. "As we are approaching Delhi, it appears we are not being escorted, we are being detained," Wangchuk stated. He also noted that around 1,000 police personnel were deployed at the border and heavy security was present at Ladakh Bhawan in Delhi and areas where Ladakh students reside.

The Delhi Chalo Padyatra was organised by the Leh Apex Body (LAB) in collaboration with Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA). These groups have been leading an agitation for four years advocating for statehood, extension of the Constitution's sixth schedule, an early recruitment process with a public service commission for Ladakh, and separate Lok Sabha seats for Leh and Kargil districts.

Police Restrictions and Legal Directives

Delhi Police recently banned gatherings of five or more people in central and bordering areas of the national capital for six days. This decision was made due to law and order concerns and calls for protests by various organisations. The order was issued by Police Commissioner Sanjay Arora under section 163 (formerly section 144) of CrPC of Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita.

The prohibitory order will remain effective until October 5. It restricts people from carrying banners, placards, arms, or conducting protests in specified areas. The measures aim to maintain peace amidst ongoing agitations and demands from different groups.

The situation highlights ongoing tensions between authorities and activists seeking greater autonomy and representation for Ladakh. The detentions reflect broader challenges faced by protestors in navigating legal restrictions while advocating for their rights.