NSA custody of climate activist Sonam Wangchuk cancelled, Home Ministry takes big decision; know the whole matter

New Delhi. The central government has decided to revoke the custody of climate activist Sonam Wangchuk with immediate effect. The Home Ministry gave this information on Saturday. The ministry said that this step has been taken using its powers under the National Security Act (NSA). The government aims to maintain peace, stability and mutual trust in Ladakh and termination of Wangchuk’s detention will promote constructive and meaningful dialogue in the region.

Government’s stance: dialogue and solution-
The Home Ministry said that the government is continuously communicating with various communities, leaders and stakeholders of Ladakh to address the concerns and demands of the people. The ministry also pointed out that the recent bandhs and protests were affecting the peaceful environment of the region, impacting students, youth, traders, tour operators, tourists and economic activities.

Security and surveillance continues-
The ministry reiterated that all necessary security measures will be taken for Ladakh. Regional issues will be resolved through constructive talks and dialogue. For this, high level committees of the government and other appropriate forums will be used.

Arrest and intervention of Supreme Court-
Sonam Wangchuk was detained under NSA on the orders of the District Magistrate on 26 September 2025. This step was taken when the law and order situation in Ladakh became critical on 24 September 2025. Wangchuk had served only about half of his scheduled detention period.

The Supreme Court had also intervened in this matter. On February 26, the court had fixed March 10 for hearing of the plea challenging Wangchuk’s detention and raised questions about whether his speeches and social media posts were indeed inflammatory and whether they had any connection with the violence that took place on September 24, 2025.

The government has made it clear that now the way forward will come through dialogue and mutual understanding, so that both peace and development can be maintained in Ladakh.