Centre Revokes Sonam Wangchuk’s Detention Under National Security Act

The Central government has revoked the preventive detention of Ladakh-based climate activist Sonam Wangchuk under the National Security Act (NSA). The decision was announced by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) on Saturday.

In its statement, the government said the decision was taken after considering the need to maintain “an environment of peace, stability, and mutual trust” in Ladakh. It also noted that Wangchuk had already undergone nearly half of the maximum period of detention permitted under the preventive detention law.

The Centre added that it has been engaging with community leaders and stakeholders in Ladakh to address the concerns and aspirations of people in the region. At the same time, the government pointed out that continuous bandhs and protests had disrupted normal life and affected several sections of society, including students, job aspirants, businesses, tour operators, and tourists.

The government further stated that discussions on the region’s demands will continue through the High-Powered Committee constituted to examine issues related to Ladakh, along with other appropriate platforms.

Wangchuk was detained on September 26, 2025, and lodged in a jail in Jodhpur following protests in Ladakh over demands for statehood and Sixth Schedule status for the Union Territory.

Meanwhile, a petition filed by Wangchuk’s wife, Gitanjali Angmo, challenging his detention remains pending before the Supreme Court. The plea was first heard on October 6, 2025, and arguments concluded last month.

During the hearings, the Supreme Court raised questions about the transcripts of videos cited by the government against Wangchuk, even remarking that the detaining authority may have read too much into his speeches.

The matter is currently listed for hearing on March 17, when the Court is expected to consider the Centre’s submissions regarding the video transcripts before taking a final decision.