The Central government has revoked the detention of Ladakh-based climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, who had been arrested under the National Security Act (NSA). Wangchuk was detained on September 26 last year amid large protests in Ladakh over demands for statehood for the region and its inclusion under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution of India.
“In the backdrop of the serious law and order situation that arose in the peace-loving town of Leh on September 24, Sonam Wangchuk was detained on September 26 under the NSA pursuant to an order issued by the District Magistrate, Leh, with a view to maintaining public order. Wangchuk has already undergone nearly half of the period of detention under the NSA,” a spokesperson for the Ministry of Home Affairs said in a statement on Saturday.
The ministry said the decision to detain Wangchuk was taken considering the need to create “an environment of peace, stability, and mutual trust” in Ladakh.
“The Government remains committed to fostering an environment of peace, stability, and mutual trust in Ladakh so as to facilitate constructive and meaningful dialogue with all stakeholders. In furtherance of this objective, and after due consideration, the Government has decided to revoke the detention of Sonam Wangchuk with immediate effect by exercising the powers available under the National Security Act,” the ministry said.
The statement added that Wangchuk had already completed nearly half of the maximum detention period permitted under the preventive detention law.
The government also said it has been engaging with stakeholders and community leaders in Ladakh to address the aspirations and concerns of people in the region.
“The government reiterates its commitment to providing all necessary safeguards for Ladakh. It remains hopeful that the issues concerning the region will be resolved through constructive engagement and dialogue, including through the mechanism of the high-powered committee as well as other appropriate platforms,” the statement said.
The ministry further noted that the ongoing atmosphere of bandhs and protests had adversely affected normal life in the region, including students, job aspirants, businesses, tour operators and tourists, as well as the broader economy.
Meanwhile, Ladakh-based political activist Sajjad Kargili welcomed the decision but said the larger movement would continue.
“The revocation of the National Security Act against Sonam Wangchuk is a welcome step. However, our struggle for our legitimate rights will continue. We also demand the immediate release of Deldan Namgial and Smanla Dorjey, and appeal to the authorities to unconditionally drop all charges against those detained on September 24,” Kargili said while talking to FoEJ Media.
