Sonam Wangchuk Arrested Following Violent Protests In Ladakh Amid Stability Concerns

Leh, Ladakh: Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk was arrested on Friday by Ladakh Police, two days after violent protests in Leh demanding statehood for Ladakh left four people dead and more than 70 injured. The unrest escalated from a peaceful shutdown into widespread clashes with security forces and arson, targeting government buildings and vehicles.

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) had earlier canceled the FCRA license of Wangchuk's NGO, the Students Educational and Cultural Movement of Ladakh (SECMOL), citing alleged violations. Authorities allege that Wangchuk incited the protesters through his speeches referencing the Arab Spring and Nepal's Gen Z protests, which allegedly motivated the violence.

Wangchuk has denied these allegations, asserting that his NGO did not receive foreign contributions, and the funds were used for legitimate activities. The government also claims that his other initiative, the Himalayan Institute of Alternatives Ladakh (HIAL), received over ₹1.5 crore in foreign remittances without FCRA registration. Additionally, ₹6.5 crore was allegedly diverted to his private company, Sheshyon Innovation.

The activist described the government's actions as a "scapegoat tactic" and warned that his imprisonment could create greater challenges for authorities than his continued activism.

The incident has drawn widespread attention to the region, raising concerns over public safety and governance in Ladakh amid ongoing demands for statehood.