Complete Shutdown in Ladakh amid Illegal Detention of Sonam Wangchuk

A complete shutdown was observed across Ladakh today in response to the arrest of climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, MP Mohammad Hanifa Jan, and around 120 others.

These individuals were detained at the Delhi border while marching towards the Indian capital. The shutdown impacted daily life in both Kargil and Leh districts, as businesses closed and movement was restricted.

The strike was called by the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA) and the Leh Apex Body (LAB), reflecting widespread discontent. Sonam Wangchuk, a prominent figure in Ladakhi climate activism, had led the ‘Delhi Chalo Padyatra,’ which began in Leh a month ago.

On Monday night, police detained Wangchuk and his fellow marchers at the Delhi border. Alongside Wangchuk, several notable leaders from Ladakh were arrested, including KDA Co-Chairman Asgar Ali Karbalai and Chief Executive Councillor of the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council, Kargil, Mohammad Jaffar Akhone.

The march was organized by the LAB and KDA, both advocating for the rights of Ladakhis for the past four years. Their key demands include statehood for Ladakh, inclusion under the Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution, an expedited recruitment process, and separate Lok Sabha seats for Leh and Kargil.

In a press release, the KDA condemned the detentions, stating that these actions represent a violation of fundamental rights to freedom of expression and assembly. They characterized the arrests as undermining democratic principles and disrespecting the dignity of Ladakh’s people.

The statement also criticized the ruling government and Delhi Police for their “troubling disregard” for the community’s voice. The KDA urged unity among Ladakhis to protest against such actions, which they deemed inhumane.

Additionally, the All Kargil Students Association Delhi (AKSAD) expressed strong condemnation of the detentions. They conveyed their disheartenment over the Indian government’s refusal to allow peaceful marchers into Delhi.

AKSAD stated, “This march represents our advocacy for the longstanding Four-Point demands of the Ladakhi people.” They emphasized that detaining the marchers, including key leaders, has caused significant distress within the Ladakhi community.

The association called upon the Indian government to address the concerns of Ladakhis and fulfill its commitments to the region.

To summarize, the shutdown in Ladakh reflects deep-rooted frustrations over governance and representation. The detentions of prominent activists have galvanized local communities to unite in their demands for justice and autonomy.