New Delhi: In a clash between climate activism and law enforcement, renowned climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, along with approximately 20 fellow demonstrators, was detained by Delhi Police on Sunday during a protest outside Ladakh Bhawan.
The group was advocating for Ladakh’s inclusion under the Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution, a framework that grants autonomy to tribal regions.
Earlier, Wangchuk, who intended to undertake a fast at Jantar Mantar to press for their demands, faced an immediate setback as police denied permission for the protest at the chosen location. Instead, the activists found themselves surrounded by heavy police presence and were subsequently taken to Mandir Marg police station for detention.
According to police officials, the protesters lacked the necessary approval to gather outside Ladakh Bhawan. “They have submitted an application for a protest at Jantar Mantar, which is currently under review. They are not authorized to assemble elsewhere, and those detained will be released shortly,” stated a senior officer. The activists contended that their gathering was peaceful and should not be classified as a protest.
Wangchuk and his supporters have been relentless in their efforts, marching over 1,000 kilometers from Leh to the national capital to demand the constitutional provisions that would empower Ladakh with greater autonomy. Their previous encounter with law enforcement occurred on September 30 at the Singhu border, where they were also detained but released shortly thereafter.
The protesters are advocating for critical reforms, including statehood for Ladakh, the establishment of a public service commission, and dedicated Lok Sabha seats for the regions of Leh and Kargil. Their campaign is rooted in the principles of self-governance and the need for legislative and administrative independence, similar to the arrangements that exist for tribal areas in northeastern states such as Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura, and Mizoram.
