Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk
| Photo Credit:
Swapan Mahapatra
Violence erupted in Leh on September 24 after hundreds of young demonstrators gathered at a protest site where Wangchuk had been on a hunger strike, demanding Sixth Schedule constitutional status for Ladakh and restoration of statehood, among other demands. Protesters clashed with security forces, torching a police vehicle and the local office of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).
At least four people were killed and around 70 injured while several police personnel were also hurt.
Two days later, authorities detained Wangchuk under the NSA, accusing him of inciting violence, and shifted him to Jodhpur Central Jail.
In a statement, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) said the decision to revoke Wangchuk’s detention was taken after due consideration to create conditions for “constructive and meaningful dialogue” with all stakeholders.
The Ministry said the government had been engaging with community leaders and other stakeholders in Ladakh to address the aspirations and concerns of the region’s people. However, it said the prevailing atmosphere of bandhs and protests had affected the region’s otherwise peaceful character and adversely impacted students, job aspirants, businesses, tour operators, tourists and the local economy.
The MHA reiterated the government’s commitment to providing safeguards for Ladakh and expressed hope that issues concerning the region would be resolved through dialogue and engagement, including through the High-Powered Committee and other appropriate platforms.
Former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) leader Mehbooba Mufti said it was wrong to keep Wangchuk in jail for so long. She added that the NSA should not have been invoked against him, noting his contributions to environmental causes.
Published on March 14, 2026