Ladakhi Activist Sonam Wangchuk Shifted to Jodhpur Jail Amid Tensions Over Statehood Agitation

Jaipur, Sept 2025 : Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, the prominent face of Ladakh’s statehood movement, was transferred to Jodhpur Central Jail under heavy security on Friday following his arrest earlier in the day.

According to officials, Wangchuk was first detained in Leh, then flown to Delhi, before being transported to Jodhpur under special arrangements. Upon arrival at the Jodhpur Air Force Station, he was escorted by a large security convoy directly to the Central Jail. Sources said that preparations for his arrival had been underway since Friday afternoon, with authorities anticipating a high-profile inmate.

By 8:30 p.m., a convoy of police and Army vehicles entered the jail premises through the Red Gate. Wangchuk was formally handed over to jail officials and lodged in a separate ward within the facility to ensure security.

Tensions in Leh After Violence

The situation in Leh has remained tense since September 24, when protests demanding full statehood for Ladakh and inclusion under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution turned violent. The unrest followed nearly two weeks of peaceful demonstrations and hunger strikes led by Wangchuk.

Clashes between protesters and security forces left four people dead and more than 45 injured. The deceased have been identified as Tsewang Tharchin (46), Stanzin Namgyal (24), Jigmet Dorjay (25), and Rinchen Dadul (21).

Ladakh Director General of Police S.D. Singh Jamwal confirmed that 15 people were seriously injured, while around 30 sustained minor wounds. In response, the administration imposed a curfew under Section 162 of the CrPC, which has now entered its third consecutive day. Internet services remain suspended, and schools and colleges have been ordered shut until Saturday. Heavy deployment of security personnel continues across Leh.

Wangchuk Blamed for Instigating Violence

Authorities have accused Sonam Wangchuk of inciting violence during the agitation, though they have not clarified the exact legal provisions under which he was arrested. Prior to the unrest, Wangchuk had publicly warned that ignoring the people’s demands could lead to escalation. “If the government continues to ignore our demands, unfortunately, this may happen again,” he had cautioned.

Wangchuk’s arrest marks a dramatic turn in a movement that had so far been largely peaceful. The activist, known internationally for his innovations in sustainable technology and education, had been urging constitutional safeguards for Ladakh to protect its fragile environment and unique cultural identity.

Crackdown Continues

Police have arrested 60 people so far in connection with the clashes. Authorities are maintaining strict vigil in the region, warning against further disturbances. Officials say the curfew will remain in place until order is fully restored.

The agitation, which began on September 10 with a hunger strike, has drawn widespread attention within Ladakh and beyond. With Wangchuk’s detention and transfer to Jodhpur, tensions remain high as the people of Ladakh continue to press for greater political rights and recognition within India’s constitutional framework.

Team Maverick.