Ladakh Violence: Climate Activist Sonam Wangchuk Arrested Under NSA, Shifted to Jodhpur Jail with 24-Hour CCTV Surveillance

In a dramatic turn of events following violent protests in Ladakh, noted climate activist and education reformer Sonam Wangchuk has been arrested under the stringent National Security Act (NSA). Authorities confirmed on Friday that Wangchuk has been shifted to Jodhpur Central Jail, where he is being held in a high-security ward under round-the-clock CCTV monitoring and 24-hour surveillance.

The development comes just two days after large-scale demonstrations in Leh and surrounding areas escalated into violence, leaving four people dead and nearly 90 injured. The protests were sparked by demands for full statehood for Ladakh and the extension of Sixth Schedule constitutional safeguards to protect the region’s unique demographic and cultural identity.

Arrest Before Scheduled Press Conference

Wangchuk, a leading voice for Ladakh’s rights, was scheduled to address a press conference in Leh at 2:30 pm on Friday. However, when he did not arrive at the venue, organizers grew concerned. Soon after, it was revealed that a team of Ladakh Police, led by DGP SD Singh Jamwal, had detained him from his native village, Uliaktopo. His sudden arrest has shocked his supporters and sparked widespread criticism.

Internet Shutdown and Security Restrictions

As tensions escalated, the Ladakh administration imposed a mobile internet shutdown across Leh district, citing security concerns. A strict curfew has also been enforced for three consecutive days, with security forces patrolling key towns to prevent further clashes. Authorities confirmed that over 50 people have been detained, while prohibitory orders under Section 144, restricting gatherings of more than five people, remain in effect in both Leh and Kargil.

A senior police official stated, “The overall situation in Ladakh is currently peaceful, though restrictions may be relaxed to allow residents to purchase essentials.”

Organizers Deny Foreign Hand, Demand Inquiry

Despite Wangchuk’s arrest, the scheduled press conference was held. Chering Dorjay, co-chair of the Leh Apex Body (LAB), strongly denied any foreign interference in the protests, instead attributing the violence to “out-of-control youth.” He demanded a judicial inquiry into the firing incident on Wednesday, alleging that police and CRPF personnel opened fire on protesters without first using non-lethal measures such as water cannons or warning shots.

Dorjay further warned that unless the Home Ministry engages in dialogue without delay, the agitation could intensify, though he emphasized that future protests would remain peaceful and non-violent.

Wangchuk’s Hunger Strike and Central Government’s Response

The arrest also coincides with the 35-day hunger strike Wangchuk had been leading since September 10, which began with a joint prayer ceremony. The movement had compelled the Centre to extend an invitation for talks scheduled on October 6. However, Friday’s arrest has cast doubt over whether these talks will proceed as planned.

Opposition Criticizes Central Government

Wangchuk’s detention has triggered strong political reactions. Opposition leaders accused the BJP-led central government of suppressing democratic dissent in Ladakh.

• Omar Abdullah, former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister, called the arrest “unfortunate” and alleged that the Centre had reneged on assurances made during the 2020 Hill Council elections.

• Jairam Ramesh, Congress General Secretary, posted on X (formerly Twitter): “The Congress condemns the arrest of Sonam Wangchuk under the National Security Act.”

• Several leaders described the move as a “betrayal of the Ladakhi people” and an example of “selective repression.”

Family’s Response

Wangchuk’s wife, Geetanjali Angmo, accused the government of deliberately tarnishing his reputation by spreading false narratives. She claimed that her husband was being treated like a criminal without justification and alleged that police personnel had vandalized their home during his arrest.

FCRA License Revoked

Adding to the controversy, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) recently revoked the FCRA (Foreign Contribution Regulation Act) license of Wangchuk’s organization, the Students’ Educational and Cultural Movement of Ladakh (SECMOL), citing alleged financial irregularities. This step, followed closely by his arrest, has raised further questions about the government’s intent.

An Uneasy Calm in Ladakh

While the situation in Ladakh remains tense, officials have confirmed that no fresh incidents of violence were reported on Friday. However, the continued detention of Wangchuk and other activists, coupled with restrictions on communication, has created an atmosphere of unease across the Himalayan region.