Jodhpur: Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk was released from Jodhpur Central Jail on Saturday after the Central government revoked his detention under the National Security Act (NSA), bringing an end to nearly six months of incarceration.
Wangchuk, 59, had been detained on September 26, 2025, following protests in Leh linked to demands for statehood for Ladakh and inclusion of the region under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution. Authorities had invoked the NSA after demonstrations in the region turned violent.
Officials confirmed that Wangchuk walked out of jail at around 1:30 pm, after the government issued orders cancelling the preventive detention. The release formalities were completed by his wife, Geetanjali Angmo, who had also been actively pursuing legal efforts to challenge his detention.
Decision Linked to Dialogue Efforts
According to government sources, the decision to revoke the NSA order was taken as part of an effort to encourage peaceful engagement and dialogue with stakeholders in Ladakh. Authorities indicated that reducing tensions in the region and creating space for constructive discussions was a key consideration behind the move.
Wangchuk had already completed nearly half of the one year detention period permitted under the NSA before the order was withdrawn.
The government also acted shortly before the Supreme Court was scheduled to hear a petition filed by Angmo questioning the legality of Wangchuk’s detention.
Demands Behind the Protests
The protests in Ladakh that led to Wangchuk’s arrest were driven by longstanding demands from local groups. Activists and political leaders in the region have been seeking:
Full statehood for Ladakh
Inclusion under the Sixth Schedule, which would provide constitutional safeguards for tribal communities and local governance
Supporters argue that such measures are necessary to protect the region’s cultural identity, environment, and land rights, especially after Ladakh was separated from Jammu and Kashmir and made a Union Territory in 2019.
Reactions to the Release
Political leaders and civil society groups in Ladakh welcomed Wangchuk’s release, calling it a positive step towards resolving the issues through discussion rather than confrontation.
Several organisations said the development could help create a more constructive atmosphere for negotiations between the Centre and representatives from Ladakh.
Wangchuk, known internationally for his environmental activism and education initiatives, has been one of the prominent voices advocating sustainable development and greater autonomy for the region.
Way Forward
Observers believe the revocation of the NSA detention may signal a renewed attempt by the government to address Ladakh’s concerns through dialogue. With legal proceedings and political discussions continuing, stakeholders are expected to push for further clarity on the region’s constitutional and administrative future.
