Protests Erupt in Leh Over Detention of Climate Activist Sonam Wangchuk

Protests Erupt in Leh : On Tuesday, hundreds of people in Leh protested against the detention of climate activist Sonam Wangchuk. They filled the streets, chanting “Delhi Police, shame shame” in a show of solidarity. Wangchuk, along with 125 fellow protesters from Ladakh, was detained by Delhi Police at the Singhu border on Monday as they attempted to reach the capital.

Background of the March

The march, called ‘Delhi Chalo Padyatra,’ was aimed at reaching Rajghat on October 2 to honor Mahatma Gandhi on his birth anniversary. Launched on September 1, the movement seeks to pressure the government into resuming discussions with Ladakh’s leadership. Protesters are advocating for a four-point agenda that includes:

• Granting statehood to Ladakh
• Inclusion under the Constitution’s Sixth Schedule
• Establishing a dedicated public service commission with an expedited recruitment process
• Separate Lok Sabha seats for Leh and Kargil

The Detention and Protests

The police action took place against a backdrop of prohibitory orders in Delhi, effective until October 6. As Wangchuk and his supporters approached the capital, police intervened, leading to their detention.

In Leh, a diverse group of men, women, and students gathered to express their outrage, demanding Wangchuk’s release and the right to continue their march.

Political Reactions

Prominent political figures responded to the situation, including Rahul Gandhi, who expressed his criticism of the government's actions on X (formerly Twitter). He remarked that, like with the farmers, the 'Chakravyuh' would be overcome, and so would the government's arrogance, insisting that the authorities would have to listen to the voice of Ladakh. Gandhi also questioned the detention of elderly citizens, describing it as unacceptable.

Who is Sonam Wangchuk?

Sonam Wangchuk is an engineer and education reformer from Ladakh, recognized for his innovative approaches to education and sustainable development. He has been a vocal advocate for increased autonomy in Ladakh, even conducting a protest at a challenging altitude of 3,500 meters earlier this year.

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The protests in Leh highlight the growing frustration among locals regarding their demands for greater rights and recognition, as they rally behind Wangchuk's leadership in this pivotal moment.