Sonam Wangchuk arrested by police in Leh

September 26, 2025 by News Desk

Environmental activist and founder of SECMOL (Students’ Educational and Cultural Movement of Ladakh), Sonam Wangchuk, was arrested by Leh police in connection with the violence that erupted in Leh on September 24.

A day earlier, the central government had revoked the FCRA (Foreign Contribution Regulation Act) license of his NGO, restricting its ability to receive foreign funding.

The unrest in Ladakh turned violent, leaving at least four people dead and more than 90 injured. Protesters set fire to BJP offices and police vehicles, escalating tensions in the region.

The protests, led by Wangchuk in coordination with the Leh Apex Body and the Kargil Democratic Alliance, were demanding full statehood for Ladakh and inclusion of the region under the Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution.

Wangchuk had been on a hunger strike since September 10, but ended it following the outbreak of violence, calling for peace.

Wangchuk has alleged that the authorities are trying to target him with false charges. Meanwhile, the cancellation of SECMOL’s FCRA license is expected to significantly impact the NGO’s activities and funding.

Curfew and other restrictions have been imposed in Leh to restore order, but local leaders are pressing the government for urgent and meaningful dialogue.

The central government has scheduled talks with Ladakh leaders on October 6, which local representatives have criticized as insufficient.