Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk has been arrested in Leh, sending shockwaves through Ladakh. The 59-year-old activist, known worldwide for his work on climate change and education, was taken into custody on Friday, September 26, by a team of Ladakh police led by Director General of Police S.D. Jamwal. He had planned to address the media later in the day, but permission was denied and instead he was arrested. The exact charges against him are still unclear.
His arrest came just two days after violent protests shook Leh. Hundreds of young people had gathered near the BJP headquarters and the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council office. The protests turned violent, leading to clashes with security forces. Sadly, four civilians lost their lives and around 90 others were injured. The violence broke out during the 15th day of Wangchuk’s hunger strike, which he had been observing to push for talks with the government.
Wangchuk had been on a three-week hunger strike demanding statehood for Ladakh and inclusion of the region under the Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution. These demands are seen as crucial for protecting the land, culture, and resources of Ladakh’s people. After the violence, Wangchuk called off his strike and urged people to maintain peace, but tensions in the area remained very high.
Following the unrest, authorities quickly imposed strict measures. Internet services were suspended across Leh to stop the spread of rumors, while schools and colleges were closed until September 27. A curfew was also enforced, keeping residents indoors as heavy security forces patrolled the streets.
The arrest of Sonam Wangchuk is a major moment for Ladakh. For many people in the region, he is more than just an activist. He is seen as the voice of Ladakh, someone who speaks for their environment, their future, and their rights. His global reputation as an innovator and reformer has also brought international attention to the issue.
The central government now faces pressure to act. Talks between the Ministry of Home Affairs and Ladakh’s representatives have stalled for months. People believe the arrest could either push the government to resume discussions or cause even more unrest in the region. What happens next will decide whether Ladakh moves towards peace or sees more clashes in the coming weeks.
For now, Leh remains tense. The streets are quiet under curfew, but frustration and anger are bubbling under the surface. Many fear that arresting a figure like Sonam Wangchuk could deepen mistrust between the people of Ladakh and the authorities. At the same time, his supporters say his struggle for statehood and constitutional protection is far from over.
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