Climate Activist's Arrest Sparks Controversy Amid Ladakh Protests

Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk has been detained at Jodhpur Central Jail under the National Security Act (NSA), officials confirmed. His arrest followed escalating protests in Leh, demanding statehood for Ladakh, which turned violent, resulting in the torching of a BJP office and fatalities. Wangchuk faces allegations of inciting the unrest.

Before his arrest, Wangchuk was on a hunger strike, ceasing the protest after the violence. Punjab Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains condemned Wangchuk's detention, calling it an assault on democracy. He described Wangchuk as a pivotal figure for Ladakh and demanded his release, arguing that silencing dissent weakens the democratic fabric.

Wangchuk has been a vocal advocate for Ladakh's inclusion in the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution, which relates to the autonomy of tribal regions. Meanwhile, continued restrictions under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) were enforced in Leh, prohibiting large gatherings and unauthorized marches.

(With inputs from agencies.)