Even as the Union Government on Saturday revoked the detention of climate activist Sonam Wangchuk under the National Security Act (NSA) in an apparent move to placate agitating groups in Ladakh, the Leh Apex Body (LAB) and the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA) have decided to go ahead with their scheduled protest demonstration on March 16 in support of their demands.
The Leh Apex Body, one of the key constituents of the Ladakh agitation, clarified that the protest scheduled for March 16 would continue as planned.
“Our protest demonstration, as per our earlier schedule, will be held on March 16”, Leh Apex Body (LAB) co-chairman Chering Dorjay Lakruk told The International Business Times. He, however, said that the decision of the Union Government to revoke the detention of Sonam Wangchuk under the NSA was a welcome step.
He welcomed the release of Sonam Wangchuk, congratulated the people of Ladakh, and stated that the development has exposed the baseless allegations that had been levelled against Wangchuk.
He said that Wangchuk’s release has brought respect and relief to the people of Ladakh, as the accusations made against him have now been effectively wiped out.
According to the leadership, the decision was discussed with members of the Kargil Democratic Alliance and other stakeholders, and it was agreed that the protest would proceed because the core demands of the movement—particularly safeguards for Ladakh—remain unresolved.
The Leh Apex Body also revealed that the Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh had contacted them earlier in the day and appealed for the protest scheduled on March 16 to be called off. Responding to the request, the Apex Body leaders informed the LG that such a decision could not be taken individually and would require consultation with all stakeholders.
After discussions with the Kargil Democratic Alliance, the leadership conveyed to the administration that there had been no significant progress so far on the issue of safeguards for Ladakh. The Chief Secretary of Ladakh was also informed that the protest programme would therefore continue.
Leaders of the Leh Apex Body appealed to the people of Ladakh to participate in large numbers in the peaceful protest. They emphasised that the demonstration would remain entirely non-violent and disciplined.
The Leh Apex Body also announced plans to organise a grand reception for Wangchuk upon his return to Ladakh, celebrating both his release and the legal relief granted to him.
At the same time, the organisation expressed concern over reports that some individuals were allegedly being discouraged from joining the protest through intimidation. The Apex Body urged the public not to be influenced by such rumours and instead come forward peacefully to express their support.
Leaders further stated that if the withdrawal of the case against Wangchuk was indeed a genuine confidence-building measure ahead of the upcoming legal proceedings, then similar cases against other detained individuals should also be withdrawn. They also called for the resumption of dialogue between the government and Ladakhi representatives on the pending issues.
Additionally, leaders of the Leh Apex Body raised concerns about the barricading and security arrangements in Leh, stating that such measures send a negative message. They said they had conveyed this concern to both the Lieutenant Governor and the Chief Secretary, urging the administration to reconsider these arrangements.
The Leh Apex Body reiterated that the protest on March 16 would proceed peacefully and expressed hope that constructive dialogue with the administration would resume soon to address the aspirations and demands of the people of Ladakh.
Centre Revokes Wangchuk’s NSA Detention
Meanwhile, the Union Government on Saturday revoked the detention of climate activist Sonam Wangchuk under the National Security Act and expressed hope that the issues concerning the Union Territory of Ladakh would be resolved through constructive engagement and dialogue, including through the mechanism of the High-Powered Committee (HPC) and other appropriate platforms.
An official statement issued by the Union Ministry of Home Affairs said the Government reiterates its commitment to providing all necessary safeguards for Ladakh.
“It remains hopeful that the issues concerning the region will be resolved through constructive engagement and dialogue, including through the mechanism of the High-Powered Committee (HPC) as well as other appropriate platforms,” the statement said.
Wangchuk was detained on September 26, 2025, two days after protests over demands for statehood for Ladakh and its inclusion under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution rocked Leh. More than 45 people, including 22 policemen, were injured in the protests.
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