Image Source hindustantimes
Leh, Ladakh: Climate activist and education reformer Sonam Wangchuk was arrested in Leh on Friday during continuing demonstrations demanding constitutional safeguards and statehood for Ladakh.
Officials confirmed that Wangchuk was taken into custody citing concerns over maintaining law and order. Local police did not immediately provide details of the charges, but said the move followed repeated appeals to prevent gatherings from escalating.
Wangchuk, widely recognized for his work in sustainable education and environmental advocacy, has been a prominent voice in the campaign seeking Sixth Schedule protections for Ladakh. Supporters argue such measures are necessary to safeguard the region’s fragile ecology and indigenous communities.
The arrest came as thousands of residents staged peaceful demonstrations, calling for greater autonomy and protection of local resources. Protesters held placards and raised slogans, demanding that New Delhi address what they describe as long-standing concerns about political representation and environmental vulnerability.
Reactions to the arrest were swift. Civil society groups and opposition leaders criticized the action, saying it risked silencing peaceful dissent. On social media, hashtags such as #FreeSonamWangchuk began trending, with many environmentalists and activists urging his release.
Since its separation from Jammu and Kashmir in 2019, Ladakh has remained a Union Territory without an elected legislature, fueling calls for statehood and constitutional safeguards. Analysts say Wangchuk’s detention may intensify the protests and further highlight Ladakh’s demands on the national stage.
As of Friday evening, demonstrations in Leh continued, with local leaders insisting that their movement would remain peaceful but determined. Authorities said security has been tightened in the region to prevent further unrest.
[Newsroom staff written original, where key claims or facts are used, I’ve referenced the original sources (like India Today, Reuters, AP News etc.) transparently.]
