Leh Administration Labels Climate Activist Sonam Wangchuk a National Security Risk

The Leh district administration has defended its invocation of the National Security Act (NSA), 1980, against prominent climate activist and education reformer Sonam Wangchuk, informing the Supreme Court that his activities were "prejudicial to the security of the state, maintenance of public order, and services essential to the community." The affidavit, filed by Leh District Magistrate Avny Lavasa, emphasises that the detention order was issued after "subjective satisfaction" based on reviewed materials and that all constitutional safeguards were strictly followed.

Wangchuk, known for his innovative work in sustainable education through the SECMOL Alternative School and environmental advocacy in Ladakh's fragile Himalayan ecosystem, was detained on September 26 in Jodhpur Central Jail, Rajasthan. The arrest came two days after violent clashes in Leh on September 24, where protesters demanding statehood for Ladakh and inclusion under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution clashed with security forces, resulting in four deaths and over 90 injuries.

The Ladakh Union Territory, carved out of Jammu and Kashmir in 2019, has seen escalating demands for constitutional protections to safeguard local land rights, the environment, and autonomy amid rapid development pressures. Authorities have accused Wangchuk of inciting the unrest during his ongoing hunger strike and peaceful agitation, though supporters describe his efforts as Gandhian nonviolent advocacy for ecological preservation and regional safeguards.

The affidavit responds to a habeas corpus petition filed by Wangchuk's wife, Gitanjali J. Angmo, challenging the "illegal detention" and alleging a "systematic, untruthful campaign" linking him to foreign adversaries like Pakistan and China to discredit his movement. Angmo's plea, represented by Senior Advocate Kapil Sibal, argues that no grounds of detention were shared with the family, violating Article 22(5) of the Constitution, and highlights Wangchuk's contributions to national unity, including support for the Indian Army through high-altitude innovations.

The Supreme Court, comprising Justices A. S. Oka, Aravind Kumar, and N.V. Anjaria, issued notices to the Centre, Ladakh administration, and jail authorities on October 6, orally directing consideration of sharing detention grounds with Angmo. On October 14, the hearing was deferred due to Sibal's commitments elsewhere, with the matter now listed for October 15.

Also Read: SC Seeks Explanation from Govt Over Wangchuk’s Arrest

Under the NSA, which allows preventive detention for up to 12 months without trial to avert threats to national security, the Leh administration confirmed that Wangchuk was informed of his detention and transfer upon arrest. The order was forwarded to the Advisory Board within the mandated timeframe, along with grounds, though Wangchuk has not yet submitted a representation by the October 10 deadline. The Board has invited his input by October 17.

This case underscores broader tensions in Ladakh, where environmental activism intersects with autonomy demands, drawing opposition criticism of the government's handling and calls for judicial inquiry into the violence. As the hearing approaches, it highlights ongoing debates over the NSA's application to dissent in sensitive border regions.

Also Read: Sonam Wangchuk Vows Non-Violent Struggle for Ladakh’s Rights from Jail