Ladakh administration denies ‘witch-hunt’ against Sonam Wangchuk, says actions based on credible inputs

The Ladakh administration has strongly rejected allegations of a “witch-hunt” against environment activist Sonam Wangchuk, asserting that all actions taken by law enforcement agencies were based on “credible inputs and documents.”

In a detailed statement early Wednesday, the Ladakh administration stated, “There have been reports in the media of baseless allegations of victimization of certain individuals including Sonam Wangchuk by government agencies. There is no question of witch-hunting or smoke screens. Actions taken by the law enforcement agencies are based on credible inputs and documents. The agencies should be allowed to continue with their investigation impartially without vitiating the process”.

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Justifying Wangchuk’s detention under the stringent National Security Act (NSA), the administration alleged that he had called for an “overthrow of the government” along the lines of the Arab Spring if protesters’ demands were not met.

“He also floated the idea of self-immolation to instigate agitation, as seen in Arab countries like Tunisia. On multiple occasions, he suggested self-immolation by Ladakhis on lines of protests in Tibet, ” the statement claimed.

Pointing out that the government was pursuing the dialogue process with Ladakh leaders, the statement said “It may be noted that Government had already announced dates for talks on 20th September, 2025 and had also expressed flexibility for dates taking into consideration convenience of the Ladakh leaders. Still Sonam Wangchuk made multiple provocative statements. He gave the reference of Nepal, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh on several occasions from the hunger strike venue trying to incite the public, especially the youth. He did not call off his hunger strike despite the government announcing the date of the next meeting of the High Powered Committee”.

The statement by Ladakh administration also took account of the interview given by Wangchuk, and added: “In an interview with Ladakh Express on September 11, 2025, at NDS Park, he stated that the youth are saying that they do not want peace and Mahatma Gandhi’s path is not necessary. People are not scared of the security forces deployed, and if people come out worse may happen.”

On alleged financial and legal violations by institutions associated with Wangchuk, the administration stated, “The case of financial irregularities and foreign currency violations by HIAL is under investigation by agencies. Prima facie, there is evidence available, which merits such investigation. Further, despite knowing that it is not a recognized university, HIAL is issuing degrees to young men and women jeopardising their future prospects. HIAL did not make full disclosure of foreign funds in their balance sheets in relevant Financial Years. FCRA cancellation of SECMOL is based on clear evidence of multiple violations (not just one). After observing these irregularities, appropriate action has been taken. There are established processes and forums available to appeal to the appropriate authorities, which the organization can resort to.”

The administration also criticized Wangchuk for encouraging protesters to hide their identity, “Before starting his hunger strike, Sonam Wangchuk suggested (Sept 09, 2025) people to wear masks, caps and hoodies etc., while participating in the protest, citing covid as an excuse though there is no sign of spread of covid in Ladakh”.

“Sonam Wangchuk, on his YouTube channel ‘Achoe Nyingstam’ (A dedicated channel for Ladakhi audience wherein he speaks only in vernacular) stated (June 08, 2025) that he would bring an ‘Arab Spring’ type revolution in India to overthrow the Government”, the statement alleged that Wangchuk made inflammatory statements on his YouTube channel.

Referring to the violent incidents that led to police firing in which four people were killed and 90 injured, the administration claimed “Even though other ABL leaders (including elders), rushed to pacify the aggressive crowd, Sonam Wangchuk made no attempts to ensure peace. He remained at the Anshan site. If elderly leaders could realize the gravity of the situation and try to pacify the mob, there is no reason why Sonam Wangchuk could not have done the same, if he really desired peace. When the situation was out of control, Sonam Wangchuk called off his fast and discreetly moved out from the backside of the hunger strike venue, thereby indicating his overall sense of irresponsibility”.

“As regard to the grounds of detention etc., the same has been duly served to Sonam Wangchuk. Administration of UT of Ladakh would like to appeal that let the process of law take its own course. We are confident that together we will bring back normalcy in the peace loving Leh Township and continue with our dialogue process”, the statement added.