In a dramatic escalation of the Ladakh unrest, climate activist and engineer Sonam Wangchuk was arrested under the stringent National Security Act (NSA) on Friday, hours after violent clashes in Leh left three protesters dead and dozens injured. Authorities also revoked the foreign funding licence of Wangchuk’s educational NGO, the Students’ Educational and Cultural Movement of Ladakh (SECMOL), citing alleged violations of the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA).
Background of the Protests
On Thursday evening, protests erupted in Leh city as demonstrators demanded restoration of full statehood for Ladakh, citing discrimination and neglect since the union territory’s bifurcation from Jammu and Kashmir in 2019. Tensions flared when security forces used tear gas and baton charges to disperse crowds, triggering clashes that resulted in multiple casualties.
Arrest and Charges
Leh district police announced Wangchuk’s arrest under NSA provisions that empower authorities to detain individuals without charge for up to 12 months. Officials allege Wangchuk incited violence and threatened national security by mobilizing tribal youth. He has been transported to Jodhpur central jail, where NSA detainees are held pending further review.
Cancellation of FCRA Licence
The Ministry of Home Affairs simultaneously cancelled SECMOL’s foreign funding licence, accusing the NGO of diverting grants toward “anti-national activities.” SECMOL’s FCRA registration had enabled it to secure grants for sustainable education and cultural conservation projects across Ladakh since 2001.
Political and Public Reaction
Opposition leaders condemned the arrest as an assault on dissent. Congress MP Rahul Gandhi tweeted, “Detaining a peaceful activist under NSA undermines democracy and punishes legitimate protest.” Local Ladakhi politicians warned the crackdown could fuel further unrest in the mountainous region.
In Delhi, the Home Ministry defended its actions, citing “clear evidence” of sedition and exhortation of violence by Wangchuk. A senior official stated, “Security and public order cannot be compromised under the guise of protest.”
Impact on Ladakh’s Autonomy Debate
Wangchuk’s arrest intensifies the debate over Ladakh’s political future. Protesters demand constitutional safeguards akin to those for tribal areas and a legislative assembly to ensure local governance. Analysts predict the government may face increased pressure to grant greater autonomy to quell rising discontent.
Next Steps
Human rights groups have called for Wangchuk’s immediate release and restoration of SECMOL’s funding, warning that prolonged detention under NSA sets a dangerous precedent. Legal experts suggest Wangchuk’s case will likely reach the Supreme Court to challenge the validity of NSA detention without formal charges.
As Ladakh braces for further demonstrations, observers caution that heavy-handed measures risk alienating the very communities the union territory’s creation aimed to empower.
