Asian Mail
Leh: Hundreds of protesters took to the streets in Leh on Tuesday, demanding the immediate release of renowned climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, who was detained by Delhi Police along with dozens of supporters at the Singhu border on Monday night.
Wangchuk, an engineer and education reformer, was leading the ‘Delhi Chalo Padyatra’ protest march seeking greater autonomy for Ladakh under the Sixth Schedule, statehood, a dedicated Public Service Commission, and separate Lok Sabha seats for Leh and Kargil.
The march, which began on September 1, was set to culminate at Rajghat on October 2, commemorating Mahatma Gandhi’s birth anniversary. However, Delhi Police intervened, citing prohibitory orders restricting public gatherings until October 6.
The detention sparked widespread outrage in Ladakh, with protesters, including students, voicing frustration with the government’s handling and reiterating demands. Shops remained closed in Leh and Kargil in solidarity.
Leaders across parties condemned Wangchuk’s detention, highlighting India’s democratic values.
Wangchuk emphasized the peaceful nature of the march, stressing the irony of detention in “the world’s largest democracy”.
The situation remains tense, with protesters demanding Wangchuk’s immediate release.
