Sonam Wangchuk Receives Grand Welcome in Kargil, Urges Unity and Equal Rights for Ladakh

Kargil, Apr 5: Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk received a rousing welcome in Kargil on Sunday, where he renewed his appeal for unity across Ladakh and the nation while stressing the need for democratic and constitutional safeguards for the Union Territory.

This was Wangchuk’s first visit to Kargil after his release on March 14, ending nearly six months of detention in a Jodhpur prison under the National Security Act. His release followed the Centre’s decision to withdraw the detention grounds after a habeas corpus plea was moved in the Supreme Court of India.

During the visit, leaders of the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA) and the Leh Apex Body (LAB) reiterated their demands, including statehood for Ladakh and inclusion under the Sixth Schedule. They urged the Centre to convene the next round of discussions with the High-Powered Committee formed by the Union Home Ministry, cautioning that delays could further intensify the Ladakh rights movement.

Wangchuk, accompanied by LAB co-chairman Chering Dorjey, was welcomed by prominent leaders such as KDA co-chairman Asgar Ali Karbalai, MP Haneefa Jan, and Sajjad Kargili. A large procession escorted him to the rally venue, with supporters raising slogans in solidarity.

Expressing gratitude for the support extended during his detention, Wangchuk called for collective action beyond regional or religious divides. He emphasized that unity rooted in shared humanity and national identity is essential for building a stronger future.

Highlighting the broader concerns of the region, he said Ladakh’s demands for democratic rights, constitutional protections, and control over local resources must be addressed in line with the rest of the country. He noted that growing unity between Leh and Kargil has significantly strengthened the ongoing movement and should be preserved.

Describing his detention as challenging yet purposeful, Wangchuk said the experience reinforced his commitment to the cause. He added that a vision based on unity and mutual respect could lead not only Ladakh but the entire nation toward peace and prosperity.

Addressing the gathering, MP Haneefa Jan termed Wangchuk’s release a victory of truth and reaffirmed that the movement remains committed to dialogue. He urged Union Home Minister Amit Shah to resume talks promptly and ensure meaningful outcomes that reflect public aspirations.

Jan also warned against prolonged inaction, noting that Ladakh’s demands have remained unresolved for years. While reiterating the peaceful nature of the protests, he cautioned that public patience should not be taken for granted.

Other leaders echoed similar concerns, emphasizing the need for unity to strengthen negotiations and resist attempts to divide the region. Chering Dorjey stated that Wangchuk’s release resulted from legal pressure rather than government concession and alleged that earlier accusations were aimed at discrediting the movement.

He further pointed out that several activists remain entangled in legal cases following earlier unrest in Leh, urging authorities to address these issues. Leaders collectively stressed that maintaining unity between Kargil and Leh is crucial to achieving a fair and lasting resolution.

Karbalai concluded by affirming the movement’s openness to dialogue, while making it clear that any discussions must be sincere and not aimed at diluting the core demands of the people of Ladakh.