In a statement, the Administration of UT of Ladakh clarified few issues in the background of series of press conferences and media statements given by certain sections regarding the detention of educationist and climate activist Sonam Wangchuk under the National Security Act (NSA).
The statement claimed “There have been reports in the media of baseless allegations of victimization of certain individuals including Shri Sonam Wangchuk by government agencies. There is no question of witch-hunting or smoke screen. Actions taken by the law enforcement agencies are based on credible inputs and documents. The agencies should be allowed to continue with their investigation impartially without vitiating the process.
The case of financial irregularities and foreign currency violations by HIAL is under investigation by agencies. Prima facie, there is evidence available, which merits such investigation. Further, despite knowing that it is not a recognized university, HIAL is issuing degrees to young men and women jeopardising their future prospects. HIAL did not make full disclosure of foreign funds in their balance sheets in relevant Financial Years.
FCRA cancellation of SECMOL is based on clear evidence of multiple violations (not just one). After observing these irregularities, appropriate action has been taken. There are established processes and forums available to appeal to the appropriate authorities, which the organization can resort to.
It may be noted that Government had already announced dates for talks on 20th September, 2025 and had also expressed flexibility for dates taking into consideration convenience of the Ladakh leaders. Still Shri Sonam Wangchuk made multiple provocative statements.
He gave the reference of Nepal, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh on several occasions from the Anshan venue trying to incite the public, especially the youth.
During an interview to Ladakh Express on September 11, 2025 at NDS Park, he stated that the youth are saying that they do not want peace and Mahatma Gandhi’s path is not necessary. People are not scared of the security forces deployed, and if people come out worse may happen.
Before starting his Anshan, Shri Sonam Wangchuk suggested (Sept 09, 2025) people to wear masks, caps and hoodies etc., while participating in the protest, citing covid as excuse though there is no sign of spread of covid in Ladakh.
Sonam Wangchuk, on his YouTube channel ‘Achoe Nyingstam’ (A dedicated channel for Ladakhi audience wherein he speaks only in vernacular) stated (June 08, 2025) that he would bring an ‘Arab Spring’ type revolution in India to overthrow the Government.
Shri Sonam Wangchuk had suggested ‘overthrow’ of government on lines of ‘Arab Spring’, if their demands were not met, besides putting forth the idea of self-immolation for instigating agitation for this purpose, as happened in Arab countries including Tunisia. On multiple occasions, he suggested self-immolation by Ladakhis on lines of protests in Tibet.
Even though other ABL leaders (including elders), rushed to pacify the aggressive crowd, Shri Sonam Wangchuk made no attempts to ensure peace. He remained at the Anshan site. If elderly leaders could realize the gravity of the situation and try to pacify the mob, there is no reason why Shri Sonam Wangchuk could not have done the same, if he really desired peace. When the situation was out of control, Shri Sonam Wangchuk called off his fast and discreetly moved out from the backside of the Anshan venue, thereby indicating his overall sense of irresponsibility.
Shri Sonam Wangchuk did not call off his hunger strike despite government announcing the date of next meeting of High Powered Committee on September 20, 2025 itself, although he sat on the strike demanding talks with the government. Government also expressed flexibility for dates as per the convenience of Ladakh leaders. This irresponsible act of continuation of hunger strike for personal and political gain is responsible for all the further unfortunate developments.
As regard to the grounds of detention etc., the same has been duly served to Shri Sonam Wangchuk. Administration of UT of Ladakh would like to appeal that let the process of law takes its own course. We are confident that together we will bring back normalcy in the peace loving Leh Township and continue with our dialogue process”, the statement added.