The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has revoked the detention of Ladakh-based activist Sonam Wangchuk with immediate effect, months after he was detained under the stringent National Security Act (NSA) following violent protests in Ladakh. The decision was announced in a press statement issued by the government on March 14.
According to the MHA, Wangchuk had been detained on September 26, 2025, under the provisions of the NSA pursuant to an order issued by the District Magistrate of Leh, following a serious law and order situation in Leh on September 24, 2025. The detention was ordered with a view to maintaining public order in the region.
Officials stated that Wangchuk has already undergone nearly half of the detention period prescribed under the Act. After due consideration and in an effort to restore normalcy and promote dialogue in Ladakh, the government decided to revoke his detention using powers available under the National Security Act.
The Centre noted that it has been actively engaging with various stakeholders and community leaders in Ladakh to address the aspirations and concerns of the people. However, the government observed that continued bandhs and protests had adversely affected the peace-loving character of the society and disrupted daily life.
The protests, which were linked to demands for statehood and inclusion of Ladakh under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution, had significant economic and social repercussions. Authorities said the unrest affected students, job aspirants, businesses, tour operators, tourists and the broader local economy.
“The Government remains committed to fostering an environment of peace, stability and mutual trust in Ladakh so as to facilitate constructive and meaningful dialogue with all stakeholders,” the statement said.
The government further reiterated its commitment to providing all necessary safeguards for the Union Territory of Ladakh and expressed hope that the issues concerning the region would be resolved through constructive engagement. It also referred to the ongoing mechanism of the High-Powered Committee constituted to address Ladakh-related issues.
Wangchuk’s detention had also come under judicial scrutiny. His wife, Dr Gitanjali Angmo, had approached the Supreme Court challenging the detention and seeking his immediate release. The plea, filed through Advocate Sarvam Ritam Khare, questioned the invocation of the National Security Act against Wangchuk and alleged procedural violations, including the non-supply of the detention order.
The Supreme Court had issued notice in the matter on October 6, 2025.
During the proceedings, Senior Advocate Kapil Sibal, appearing for the petitioner, argued that the detention was based on what he described as “phantom evidence” and a lack of independent application of mind by authorities.
Wangchuk had been detained two days after protests in Ladakh turned violent, leaving four people dead and around 90 others injured in the Union Territory. At the time of the revocation order, Wangchuk was lodged in Jodhpur Jail in Rajasthan.
