Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, detained for nearly 6 months, to be released

Mangalore Today News Network

New delhi, Mar 16, 2026: Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, who was detained for nearly six months under the National Security Act (NSA) for allegedly inciting a mob with provocative statements in Ladakh’s Leh, will be released, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) said.

The ministry decided to revoke Wangchuk’s detention by exercising the powers available under the NSA after "due consideration".

The Centre, in its statement, said that Wangchuk had undergone nearly half of the period of detention under the NSA.

"Government remains committed to fostering an environment of peace, stability, and mutual trust in Ladakh to facilitate constructive and meaningful dialogue with all stakeholders. In furtherance of this objective, and after due consideration, the Government/MHA decides to revoke the detention of Sonam Wangchuk with immediate effect. Government reiterates its commitment to providing all necessary safeguards for Ladakh," it said.

It added that the central government has been "actively engaging with various stakeholders and community leaders in Ladakh with a view to addressing the aspirations and concerns of the people of the region".

"However, the prevailing atmosphere of ’bandhs’ and protests has been detrimental to the peace-loving character of the society and has adversely affected various sections of the community, including students, job aspirants, businesses, tour operators, tourists and the overall economy. The Government reiterates its commitment to providing all necessary safeguards for Ladakh. It remains hopeful that the issues concerning the region will be resolved through constructive engagement and dialogue, including through the mechanism of the High-Powered Committee as well as other appropriate platforms," the statement read.

Wangchuk was detained on September 26 last year, two days after violent protests over statehood and constitutional protection left four people dead and 50, including security personnel, injured in Ladakh’s Leh. He was detained under the NSA on the orders of the district magistrate, Leh, to "maintain public order" and was then transferred to Jodhpur prison.

Gitanjali Angmo, his wife and educator, had challenged his detention in the Supreme Court.