Centre To Release Ladakh Activist Sonam Wangchuk, Revokes Detention Over Violent Protests

Ladakh: The Indian government has revoked Ladakh activist Sonam Wangchuk’s detention under the National Security Act on Friday, March 13. The leader of the Leh Apex Body demanding statehood or Sixth Schedule safeguards since the 2019 loss of Article 370, Wangchuk had faced accusations of inciting violence amid fears over land and jobs.

The protest in Ladakh in September 2025 had killed four people after the demonstration seeking statehood turned violent.

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The development comes after the Supreme Court scrutiny of the case. It also follows the swearing-in of a new Lieutenant Governor to resolve the issue. In a press release, the government said it is 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, it added that the prevailing atmosphere of bandhs and protests has been detrimental to the peace-loving character of society and has adversely affected various sections of the community, including students, job aspirants, businesses, tour operators and tourists and the overall economy.

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“The Government remains committed to fostering an environment of peace, stability, and mutual trust in Ladakh to facilitate constructive and meaningful dialogue with all stakeholders,” the release stated, announcing that the government has decided to revoke the detention of Shri Sonam Wangchuk with immediate effect.