Climate Activist Sonam Wangchuk Arrested Under NSA
Activist Sonam Wangchuk has been arrested under the National Security Act (NSA). His arrest followed the violent protests in Leh, Ladakh, on September 24, 2025, in which four people were killed and more than 70 were injured.
The protests were held in demand for the inclusion of Ladakh in the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution. Wangchuk, who is known for Ladakhi rights and environmental issues, had previously criticized the government’s action to cancel the FCRA license of his NGO SECMOL and called it “making excuses.”
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Wangchuk has been on hunger strike for the last 15 days, demanding statehood for Ladakh and its inclusion in the Sixth Schedule, which will give jobs, lands, and employment protection rights to the people of Ladakh.
The recent Gen Z-led protests erupted in Ladakh were indicated as a sign of discontent among the youth and a lack of democratic institutional platforms in Ladakh. The centre was considering his statements after the protest erupted and made his arrest following the enquiry.
Regional organizations have also criticized his arrest, including the Himalaya Policy Campaign, which has emphasized the need for dialogue with the Ladakhi community.
This arrest has brought national attention to Ladakh and highlights the tension between law and order and the legitimate demands of regional communities.
