UT Congress Slams Ladakh Administration: Arrest of Sonam Wangchuk Won’t Restore Peace

LEH, Sept 27: The Ladakh Congress on Saturday criticized the detention of climate activist Sonam Wangchuk under the National Security Act (NSA), asserting that arresting him will not restore peace or harmony in the region. The party said Wangchuk has emerged as the most visible and vocal face of the ongoing Ladakh agitation, and no amount of vilification or alleged charges would diminish his credibility among the local population.

Sonam Wangchuk was taken into custody on Friday and shifted to Jodhpur Jail in Rajasthan, following violent protests demanding statehood and extension of Sixth Schedule status for Ladakh. The unrest resulted in four deaths and injuries to around 90 people.

“Congress strongly condemns the unwarranted arrest of the renowned activist. Wangchuk’s only fault was holding the BJP accountable for its promises regarding Ladakh’s constitutional status and highlighting local employment issues,” said Ladakh Congress president Nawang Rigzin Jora.

The party highlighted Wangchuk’s consistent efforts over the past five years, including hunger strikes, satyagrahs, and padyatras under the aegis of the Leh Apex Body-Kargil Democratic Alliance (LAB-KDA), to push for statehood, separate parliamentary representation, and government job recruitment in the region.

“He remained steadfast even in the face of harassment through agencies like the Enforcement Directorate and CBI. Wangchuk’s 35-day fast was called off on September 24 only after violent clashes erupted, leading to casualties,” the statement added.

The Congress unit warned the administration that scapegoating Wangchuk would not resolve the region’s issues. “The government is terribly mistaken if it feels arresting Wangchuk will bring peace. His voice represents the aspirations of the people of Ladakh,” it said.