Major police action in Ladakh: Sonam Wangchuk arrested, security forces deployed

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu) : In a major development on Friday in the ongoing movement demanding full statehood for Ladakh and special protection under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution, environmentalist and social activist Sonam Wangchuk was arrested by police under the National Security Act (NSA).

The arrests come just a day after fierce clashes between security forces and protesters during a shutdown and protests in Leh. Four people were killed and several others injured in the violence. As the situation escalated, authorities shut down internet services in Leh as a precautionary measure.

Local organizations in Ladakh and Wangchuk supporters have long demanded the restoration of statehood and the implementation of the Sixth Schedule. Wangchuk, who is a key member of both the Leh Apex Body and the Kargil Democratic Alliance, has been championing this issue for the past five years.

According to sources, Wangchuk was arrested around 2:30 p.m. by a force led by Ladakh Police Chief S.D. Singh Jamwal. However, the charges against him have not yet been officially confirmed. The Home Ministry has directly blamed Sonam Wangchuk for the violence.

Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah termed the arrest as "unfortunate" and accused the central government of going back on its promises.

Before his arrest, Sonam Wangchuk had denied any involvement in the violence. He condemned the clashes and ended his 15-day hunger strike on Wednesday.

Additional security forces have been deployed in Leh and surrounding areas. The situation remains tense, and the administration is closely monitoring the situation.