New Delhi, Mar 14: In a major relief to Ladakh’s protest movement, climate activist Sonam Wangchuk will walk free after the Central government revoked his detention under the stringent National Security Act (NSA), ending a high-profile standoff sparked by demands for environmental protection and Sixth Schedule status.
Wangchuk, revered for his fast-unto-death protests against unchecked development threatening Ladakh’s fragile ecology, had been held since recent demonstrations demanding constitutional safeguards. The revocation caps weeks of tension, with locals fearing industrial projects could devastate glaciers, water sources, and biodiversity in the high-altitude desert region.
Thousands rallied in Leh supporting Wangchuk’s call for autonomy to preserve Ladakh’s unique tribal heritage amid climate crisis. His release is seen as a win for grassroots activism, though activists vow to keep pressing for promises kept—hoping this unlocks dialogue on sustainable growth over exploitation. Families and supporters await his return, one step closer to securing Ladakh’s future.
