Sonam Wangchuk Demands Judicial Probe Into Leh Violence, Pledges Peaceful Struggle

Ladakhi education reformer and climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, currently detained under the National Security Act (NSA), has called for an independent judicial inquiry into the killing of four people, including an ex-serviceman, during protests in Leh on September 24. The demonstrations were seeking the restoration of statehood for Ladakh and the implementation of the Sixth Schedule.

“He has urged Ladakhis to maintain peace and unity and continue their struggle in a Gandhian, non-violent way,” said sources familiar with the details.

Wangchuk’s message was conveyed through his brother, Ka Tsetan Dorjey Ley, and his lawyer, Mustafa Haji, following a meeting at Jodhpur Central Jail on Saturday. In his statement, Wangchuk said he is “prepared to stay in jail” unless an independent probe is ordered.

A Ramon Magsaysay awardee, Wangchuk is renowned for his work in education and environmental sustainability. He also expressed support for the Leh Apex Body and the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA) in their demand for the Sixth Schedule and statehood restoration.

“…Whatever actions Apex Body takes in the interest of Ladakh, I am with them wholeheartedly,” Wangchuk said. He added:
“I am doing well, both physically and mentally, and thank everyone for their concern and prayers. My heartfelt condolences to the families of those who lost their lives, and my prayers are with the injured and those detained.”

Earlier, both the Leh Apex Body and the KDA pulled out of scheduled talks with the Home Ministry on October 6, demanding a judicial inquiry into the deaths and the immediate release of all detainees, including Wangchuk.

On Monday, the Supreme Court will hear a plea by Wangchuk’s wife, Gitanjali J Angmo, challenging his NSA detention and seeking his immediate release, terming the detention “illegal and unconstitutional.”