Wangchuk said that holding elections during winter is unacceptable, as a large part of Ladakh's population will be out of the region at that time.
Leh. Amid restrictions imposed on the proposed protest over various demands related to the Union Territory of Ladakh, climate activist Sonam Wangchuk alleged that she has been put under house arrest and around 25 police and paramilitary personnel have been deployed outside her residence in Ladakh.
Wangchuk, one of the key members of the Leh Apex Body (LAB), said he would challenge the restrictions imposed on his movement at appropriate legal forums, including the Magistrate, High Court and the Supreme Court. He questioned how a person could be prevented from participating in a peaceful protest without being formally arrested.
Wangchuk, in a video message shared on social media platform 'X' and his other accounts including Facebook late Thursday night, said that several security personnel have been deployed outside his residence since Wednesday night. Many vehicles and tents have also been set up there.
Armed soldiers deployed around the house
He alleged that armed personnel were deployed around his house throughout the day, restricting his movement. Wangchuk referred to the authorities' claim that they have only been advised to stay at home. Questioning this, he said that deployment of a large number of security personnel practically means putting them under house arrest.
Were preparing to sit on strike
He said that he and other workers, including leaders of LAB and Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA), were preparing to sit on strike for various demands related to Ladakh. For this reason these restrictions were imposed on him. These demands also include the issue of timing of the upcoming Autonomous Hill Development Council elections. These elections are proposed on December 4.
Holding elections during winter is unacceptable
Wangchuk said it was unacceptable to hold elections during winter, as a large part of Ladakh's population would be out of the region at that time. He also alleged that the Hill Development Councils have been made ineffective and deprived of real powers. The activist also reiterated his demand to make public the report of the commission formed to investigate the incident that took place on September 24 last year. He alleged that the matter was being suppressed.
People across the country urged to show solidarity towards the struggle in Ladakh
He claimed that protests have been conducted successfully at various places in Ladakh and will continue until the demands are met. Appealing for support, Wangchuk said that the people of Ladakh have always stood with the young generation of India and the soldiers protecting the country's borders. He urged people across the country to show solidarity towards the struggle in Ladakh.
police cleanliness
Ladakh Police defended the precautionary action taken against Wangchuk, saying it was in line with the prohibitory orders issued by the Chief Electoral Officer of the Union Territory of Ladakh and the District Magistrate of Leh. Police said that these orders have been issued to control public rallies, protests and other public gatherings within the limits of Leh municipal area in view of the electoral process.