Activist Sonam Wangchuk was taken into custody under the National Security Act (NSA) following violent clashes in Leh that resulted in the deaths of four protesters. The arrest, which took place on Friday, has intensified tensions in Ladakh, prompting authorities to suspend mobile internet services across the region as a precautionary measure. The developments come shortly after Wangchuk concluded a hunger strike demanding Sixth Schedule protection and statehood for Ladakh. His detention has drawn widespread attention, particularly given his longstanding activism and recent challenges, including the revocation of his FCRA license.

Arrest Under National Security Act

Sonam Wangchuk’s arrest under the NSA marks a significant escalation in the government’s response to ongoing protests in Ladakh. The law allows authorities to detain individuals without trial for extended periods if they are deemed a threat to public order or national security. Officials have not released detailed statements on the specific grounds for his detention, but the timing closely follows unrest in Leh that turned violent.

Clashes Leave Four Dead

The immediate trigger for heightened security measures was a confrontation between protesters and law enforcement in Leh. The clashes left four people dead, underscoring the intensity of public anger and frustration over unresolved demands related to Ladakh’s political status and autonomy. The violence has raised concerns about stability in the region, leading to swift administrative actions aimed at preventing further escalation.

Mobile Internet Services Suspended

In response to the unrest, authorities ordered a suspension of mobile internet services across Leh. Officials described this as a precautionary step intended to curb misinformation and prevent further mobilization of crowds through social media platforms. Internet shutdowns have been used in various parts of India during periods of unrest, though such measures often spark debates about their impact on communication and daily life for residents.

Hunger Strike and Political Demands

Before his arrest, Wangchuk had concluded a hunger strike aimed at pressing for Sixth Schedule protections under the Indian Constitution as well as statehood for Ladakh. These demands reflect long-standing concerns among local groups about preserving cultural identity, ensuring representation, and securing safeguards for land and resources. His protest had drawn significant attention both within Ladakh and beyond, highlighting broader debates about governance structures in newly reorganized territories.

Revocation of FCRA License

Adding to his challenges, Wangchuk’s Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA) license was revoked earlier this year. The license is required for organizations or individuals receiving foreign funding for social or developmental activities in India. Without it, access to international support becomes restricted, limiting operational capacity for advocacy or community initiatives linked to his work.

Ladakhi Organizations Plan Talks

Despite heightened tensions following his arrest, local organizations continue to push forward with dialogue efforts. Groups representing Ladakhi interests have scheduled discussions with a Ministry of Home Affairs committee to address their demands and grievances. These talks are viewed as an important step toward finding common ground between community aspirations and government policy decisions regarding Ladakh’s future governance framework.

The arrest of Sonam Wangchuk under NSA charges has added urgency to ongoing debates about autonomy and representation in Ladakh. With lives lost during recent clashes and communication restrictions now in place, the situation remains tense but fluid. How upcoming discussions between local groups and central authorities unfold may prove decisive in shaping both political outcomes and social stability across the region.