Incident & arrests
Leh, Ladakh: Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk was arrested by Ladakh Police on September 26, 2025, following violent protests in Leh demanding statehood and Sixth Schedule safeguards for the region. The unrest resulted in four deaths and over 90 injuries, prompting authorities to impose a curfew and suspend mobile internet services.
Wangchuk was taken into custody by a police team and later moved out of Ladakh. He has been charged under the National Security Act (NSA), which allows for long preventive detention without bail.
Legal developments
The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) canceled the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA) license of Wangchuk’s NGO, SECMOL, citing alleged violations such as depositing locally generated funds in the FCRA account, diverting funds for non-permissible activities, and failing to deposit foreign funds in the designated FCRA account. Authorities also cited “provocative statements” by Wangchuk as contributing to the recent violence.
Context & implications
Wangchuk, known for advocating Ladakh’s statehood and environmental protection, had begun a hunger strike on September 10, 2025, demanding constitutional guarantees, greater autonomy, and Sixth Schedule status. The protests escalated on September 24, resulting in clashes with police, and property damage. Wangchuk ended his hunger strike following the violence.
Next steps
Authorities are closely monitoring the situation and preparing for possible further protests by pro-statehood groups. The region remains tense, with political and social implications.
Conclusion
The arrest of Sonam Wangchuk under NSA and the FCRA license cancellation of his NGO underscore the escalating tension between Ladakh activists and authorities. The developments could shape the discourse around statehood and regional autonomy in the coming weeks.