What Govt Said While Revoking Sonam Wangchuk's NSA Detention in Ladakh
The Central Government on Saturday revoked, with immediate effect, the detention of environmental activist Sonam Wangchuk under the National Security Act (NSA).
In a press release issued here, the Ministry of Home Affairs clarified that this decision was taken with the objective of promoting peace, stability, and constructive dialogue in Ladakh.
It is noteworthy that Wangchuk was taken into custody on September 26 last year, following the emergence of a serious law-and-order situation in Leh on September 24. He was subsequently transferred to Jodhpur Jail in Rajasthan. Wangchuk had already served approximately half of his detention period under the said Act.
Under the provisions of the NSA, the maximum period for which an individual can be detained is 12 months. The government, however, retains the discretion to release the individual at any time prior to the expiration of this period.
According to the Ministry of Home Affairs' statement, the government is actively engaging with various stakeholders and community leaders to address the aspirations and concerns of the people of Ladakh. The Ministry expressed hope that issues pertaining to the region would be resolved through constructive dialogue via the 'High-Powered Committee' and other appropriate forums. The government also reiterated its unwavering commitment to the security and development of Ladakh.
Earlier, Wangchuk had conveyed through social media platforms that, despite being in detention, he had not distanced himself from his activism. In his posts, he affirmed that his struggle for the security, dignity, and future of Ladakh would continue with unity and integrity.
Notably, Wangchuk's wife, Gitanjali J. Angmo, had challenged his detention in the Supreme Court, terming it "illegal and arbitrary." The hearing of this case is currently underway.