Ladakh: Ladakh-based climate activist and education reformer Sonam Wangchuk was released from jail after the Union government revoked his detention under the National Security Act (NSA). According to The Times of India, Wangchuk walked out of Jodhpur Central Jail on Saturday following the Centre’s decision to cancel the detention order with immediate effect.
The decision was taken by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), which stated that the revocation of the detention was intended to help create an atmosphere of peace and stability in Ladakh. Officials said the step was also aimed at encouraging dialogue with stakeholders in the region as discussions continue over local demands and concerns.
Wangchuk had been detained since September 26, 2025, after protests erupted in Leh over demands for statehood for Ladakh and the region’s inclusion under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution. The demonstrations led to unrest in the area and prompted authorities to invoke the NSA against the activist.
The protests saw a police crackdown in which several people were injured and at least four individuals lost their lives. Authorities had argued earlier that preventive detention was necessary to maintain law and order in the region during the period of unrest.
Following his release, political leaders and groups in Ladakh welcomed the government’s decision and reiterated their demand that other detained protesters should also be freed. Some local organisations described Wangchuk’s release as an important moment for the movement advocating constitutional safeguards and greater political representation for the region.
The revocation of the detention order also came as legal proceedings related to Wangchuk’s incarceration were underway. A petition challenging his detention had been filed before the Supreme Court by his wife, and the matter was being heard by the court.
Wangchuk’s release marks the end of nearly six months of preventive detention and has drawn significant attention across the country amid ongoing discussions about Ladakh’s political and constitutional demands.
Also Read: Pakistani Terrorist Neutralized in Overnight Operation in J&K’s Uri Sector
-
-
-
-
