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Sonam Wangchuk’s NSA Arrest: The Inside Story of Ladakh’s Fiery Protests

Pooja Mishra | 4 min read | 1 week ago | Sep 29, 2025 11:32 am IST
Sonam Wangchuk's NSA Arrest: The Inside Story of Ladakh's Fiery Protests

The renowned climate activist and Magsaysay Award winner, Sonam Wangchuk, known for his innovative educational work, has recently been thrust into a storm of controversy. His arrest under the stringent National Security Act (NSA) amid escalating protests in Ladakh has sent shockwaves, raising critical questions about free speech and regional demands. This unfolding crisis highlights the deep-seated struggle for constitutional protections in the high-altitude region.

Wangchuk, a public figure who even appeared on Season 9 of Kaun Banega Crorepati (KBC), now faces serious allegations. His journey from educational activism to being at the center of a national security debate is both surprising and concerning. What exactly led to this dramatic turn of events, and what do the latest revelations uncover?

What the Data Reveals: A Deep Dive into the Ladakh Crisis

The situation in Ladakh escalated rapidly, culminating in Wangchuk’s arrest. Here are the key facts painting a vivid picture of the crisis:

  • Shocking Arrest Under NSA: Sonam Wangchuk was detained under the severe National Security Act on September 26, 2025. He was promptly transferred to Jodhpur Central Jail in Rajasthan, reportedly held in complete isolation. This move signifies the gravity with which authorities view the situation.
  • Controversial Allegations: Officials accuse Wangchuk of making “provocative remarks” during his hunger strike (September 9-24, 2025) for Ladakh’s Sixth Schedule status and statehood. They claim his actions incited violence and derailed crucial talks with the government.
  • ‘Pakistan Links’ Claimed: In a press conference, Ladakh police DGP SD Singh Jamwal alleged Wangchuk had contacts with an arrested Pakistani intelligence operative and attended events in Pakistan and Bangladesh. However, Wangchuk’s wife, Gitanjali Angmo, strongly refuted these claims, asserting his foreign visits were solely climate-related.
  • FCRA License Revoked: The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) cancelled the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA) license of Wangchuk’s non-profit, SECMOL, on September 25, 2025. This was based on alleged violations and a claim that he “failed to control the protests.”
  • Violent Clashes Erupt: Just two days before his arrest, on September 24, 2025, violent protests rocked Leh. These clashes tragically resulted in four civilian deaths and nearly 90 injuries, including security personnel. Protesters reportedly torched a BJP office and government vehicles, marking a significant escalation.
  • Ladakh’s Five-Year Fight: Wangchuk has been a vocal leader in the five-year-long agitation for Ladakh’s constitutional protections. Demands include statehood, inclusion under the Sixth Schedule (which grants autonomous governance for tribal areas), separate Lok Sabha seats for Leh and Kargil, and local employment opportunities. This movement gained momentum after the abrogation of Article 370 in August 2019, which bifurcated Jammu and Kashmir and made Ladakh a Union Territory without a legislature.

Real-Life Examples: The Escalation on the Ground

The data paints a clear picture of escalating tensions. The violent clashes in Leh, leading to fatalities and property damage, are a stark reminder of the intensity of public sentiment. The swift cancellation of SECMOL’s FCRA license and Wangchuk’s immediate transfer to a distant jail further illustrate the decisive, and some argue, severe response from authorities.

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Imagine the scene: a peaceful hunger strike transforms into street violence, leading to a prominent activist’s detention under a law typically reserved for grave threats to national security. The conflicting narratives—authorities citing incitement and foreign links versus Wangchuk’s wife defending his peaceful activism—create a complex, emotionally charged situation.

What You Should Do Next: Stay Informed

The unfolding events in Ladakh are not just a regional issue; they touch upon fundamental aspects of democracy, activism, and governance. Understanding the nuances of this crisis requires careful consideration of all perspectives.

Share your thoughts in the comments below: What are your impressions of Sonam Wangchuk’s arrest and the ongoing protests in Ladakh? Stay informed as this critical situation develops, and understand the various viewpoints shaping this vital debate.