The Centre has decided to revoke the detention of climate activist Sonam Wangchuk under the National Security Act(NSA), several months after the law and order situation that unfolded in Leh in September 2025.
According to a statement issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), Wangchuk had been detained on September 26, 2025, under the provisions of the National Security Act based on an order issued by the District Magistrate of Leh, with the aim of maintaining public order.
Earlier, the Centre had defended the detention before the Supreme Court of India, stating that Wangchuk was the “chief provocateur” behind the violence that broke out in Leh on September 24, in which four people were killed and several others were injured. The government had argued that all procedural safeguards under the NSA were followed and that the situation stabilised after his detention.
The government also said it has been engaging with various stakeholders and community leaders in Ladakh to address the concerns and aspirations of the region’s people.
However, it noted that the ongoing atmosphere of bandhs and protests has negatively impacted the peaceful nature of society and has affected several sections of the community, including students, job aspirants, businesses, tour operators, tourists, and the broader economy.
The MHA said the government remains committed to creating an atmosphere of peace, stability and mutual trust in Ladakh to enable constructive dialogue with all stakeholders.
“In furtherance of this objective, and after due consideration, the government has decided to revoke the detention of Sonam Wangchuk with immediate effect by exercising the powers available under the National Security Act,” the statement said.
The government also reiterated its commitment to ensuring necessary safeguards for Ladakh and expressed hope that the issues concerning the region will be addressed through constructive engagement and dialogue, including through the mechanism of the High-Powered Committee and other appropriate platforms.
