Climate Activist Sonam Wangchuk Detained Alongside 120 Others from Ladakh in 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 revealed that Wangchuk and others were taken to Alipur and nearby police stations. The group intended to stay overnight at the border but faced prohibitory orders in Delhi.

Wangchuk shared a video on Instagram before being detained, showing their buses stopped by police. He interacted with officials, expressing surprise at the heavy police presence. "As we are approaching Delhi, it appears we are not being escorted, we are being detained," Wangchuk stated. He noted that around 1,000 police personnel were deployed at the border.

Prohibitory Orders and Detentions

The detentions occurred due to prohibitory orders banning gatherings of five or more people in north and central Delhi. Women participating in the march were not detained, according to sources. The detained men were held at Alipur Police Station and other nearby stations along the Delhi-Haryana border. They are expected to be released after some time.

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

Security Measures and Restrictions

Delhi Police imposed restrictions on gatherings due to law and order concerns. An order from Police Commissioner Sanjay Arora directed the enforcement of section 163 of Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita in New Delhi, North, Central districts, and bordering areas. This order is effective until October 5.

Wangchuk mentioned that security forces were heavily deployed at Ladakh Bhawan in Delhi and areas where Ladakhi students reside. "It appears they don't want to allow this padyatra to take place," he commented. The police presence indicated a strong stance against potential protests.

The prohibitory orders also banned carrying banners, placards, arms, or protests in central parts and bordering areas of the national capital for six days. This decision was made in response to calls for protests by various organisations.

The situation highlights ongoing tensions between authorities and activists seeking greater autonomy and representation for Ladakh. The demands reflect broader concerns about governance and development in the region.