Sonam Wangchuk’s detention under the National Security Act (NSA) has triggered unrest in Leh, leading to a curfew for the fourth consecutive day on Saturday. Heavy deployment of police and paramilitary forces was seen across the violence-hit town, as the Ladakh administration defended the move as essential to maintain public order.
Officials said patrolling had been intensified, and raids were underway to trace those involved in the 24 September clashes. Prohibitory orders also remained in force across Ladakh, including Kargil.
Sonam Wangchuk Arrest Sparks
The administration accused Wangchuk of delivering provocative speeches, citing his references to the Nepal agitation and the Arab Spring as triggers for the violence. The clashes left four people dead and several injured, while government buildings, vehicles, and public institutions were set ablaze during the protests.
Authorities argued that despite repeated attempts at dialogue, Wangchuk persisted with his hunger strike. They claimed his actions escalated tensions and fuelled unrest in the region.
Lt Governor Kavinder Gupta is expected to review the situation in a high-level security meeting. Meanwhile, officials said Wangchuk had been shifted to Jodhpur prison in Rajasthan for security reasons, stressing that his detention was “vital to restore normality” in Leh.
