New Delhi, March 14 (UNI) The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) on Saturday revoked the detention of climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, who had been held under the National Security Act in connection with the violence that took place in Leh last September, stating that the decision was taken to promote peace, stability and constructive dialogue in Ladakh.
The ministry said the government remains committed to fostering an environment of mutual trust in Ladakh and, after due consideration, has decided to revoke Wangchuk’s detention with immediate effect while reiterating its commitment to providing all necessary safeguards for the region.
The move comes months after Wangchuk was detained and later sent to Rajasthan’s Jodhpur jail under the NSA. In a statement issued here, the ministry stated that following the “serious law and order situation” that arose in Leh on 24 September, last year, Wangchuk was detained two days later, on 26 September, under the provisions of the National Security Act (NSA) pursuant to an order issued by the District Magistrate, Leh, with a view to maintaining public order. “Wangchuk has already undergone nearly half of the period of detention under the said Act,” the ministry stated.
The Government has been actively engaging with various stakeholders and community leaders in Ladakh with a view to addressing the aspirations and concerns of the people of the region.
However, the prevailing atmosphere of bandhs and protests has been detrimental to the peace-loving character of the society and has adversely affected various sections of the community, including students, job aspirants, businesses, tour operators and tourists and overall economy, the release stated further.
“The Government remains committed to fostering an environment of peace, stability, and mutual trust in Ladakh so as to facilitate constructive and meaningful dialogue with all stakeholders. In furtherance of this objective, and after due consideration, the Government has decided to revoke the detention of Sonam Wangchuk with immediate effect by exercising the powers available under the National Security Act,” it added.
The ministry also stated that the Government reiterates its commitment to providing all necessary safeguards for Ladakh. “It remains hopeful that the issues concerning the region will be resolved through constructive engagement and dialogue, including through the mechanism of the High-Powered Committee as well as other appropriate platforms,” the statement concluded.
Earlier, on March 12, in a post on X Wangchuk had conveyed that he has not stepped away from activism. “I have not stepped away from activism. My commitment to Ladakh remains unchanged. But activism must serve a larger purpose: a just, lasting future for Ladakh. It will require clarity, unity, and sincere dialogue. Our struggle has always been for Ladakh’s protection, dignity, and long-term wellbeing and shall continue to be!!” the post on his social media handle read.
The Centre had alleged that Wangchuk attempted to mobilise members of the younger generation to launch protests on the lines of recent movements seen in Nepal and Bangladesh.
Later, Wangchuk’s wife, Gitanjali J Angmo, approached the Supreme Court of India, challenging his detention under the National Security Act. In her petition, she described the action as unlawful and arbitrary, arguing that it violated his fundamental rights.
