Indian Police Arrest Activist Wangchuk Following Deadly Ladakh Protests
Indian Police Arrest Ladakh Activist Sonam Wangchuk After Deadly Protests
SRINAGAR, India, Sept 26 (Reuters) – Indian authorities arrested Ladakh activist Sonam Wangchuk on Friday, two days after violent protests erupted demanding statehood for the Himalayan region, leaving four people dead. The unrest also prompted officials to suspend mobile internet services in Leh, the territory’s main city.
The protests escalated on Wednesday when crowds, angered over Wangchuk’s hunger strike, clashed with police. Protesters set fire to buildings and police vehicles, while security forces opened fire in what authorities described as self-defence. Wangchuk had been on a 14-day hunger strike calling for Ladakh’s recognition as a separate federal territory. He ended his fast following the outbreak of violence.
A police officer, speaking on condition of anonymity, said Wangchuk was taken into custody ahead of a press conference he was scheduled to hold. India’s Interior Ministry earlier accused Wangchuk of inciting the unrest through what it called “provocative statements.”
In addition to his arrest, the ministry cancelled a licence granted to Wangchuk’s non-governmental organisation, the Students’ Educational and Cultural Movement of Ladakh (SECMOL), citing alleged violations.
Curfews remain in effect in several parts of the territory as authorities try to restore order. The clashes left dozens injured, including both police personnel and civilians.
Another official, also speaking anonymously, confirmed that mobile internet services in Leh were suspended on Friday as a precautionary measure, aimed at preventing the spread of misinformation and further violence.
The arrest of Wangchuk, a prominent voice in the movement for Ladakh’s political recognition, marks a significant escalation in the region, raising concerns about the balance between freedom of expression and maintaining public order.
As the situation remains tense, security forces continue to monitor the area closely, while authorities urge residents to comply with curfew restrictions to prevent further casualties.