Zania-Editor
The detention of Sonam Wangchuk, a researcher and climate activist, along with about 120 people from Ladakh, has caused a strong reaction from opposition parties, who are calling it a ‘dictatorial’ act. Wangchuk and the group were marching to Delhi to demand special rights for Ladakh when police stopped them at the border.
The protest was organized by the Leh Apex Body and the Kargil Democratic Alliance, which have been fighting for four years for statehood for Ladakh, inclusion in the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution, faster recruitment processes, and separate Lok Sabha seats for Leh and Kargil.
Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, criticized the detention, saying, “It’s unacceptable to stop Sonam Wangchuk and others who are peacefully fighting for their rights. Why are elderly citizens being detained for standing up for Ladakh? Modi ji, like with the farmers, this will not last, and you will have to listen to Ladakh’s voice.”
Delhi Chief Minister Atishi also condemned the action, calling it ‘dictatorship.’ She questioned whether it was wrong for the group to seek their rights and said she would visit the police station where Wangchuk is being held.
Former Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav added that the BJP government is afraid of peaceful protests. He said they cannot silence Wangchuk’s efforts and ignoring the concerns from Ladakh shows political ignorance.
Before his detention, Wangchuk posted on social media about the large police presence at the Delhi border, noting that around 1,000 officers were deployed to stop them.
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