LG asks LAB to suspend March 16 rally; both bodies refuse
Govt engaging with stakeholders to address people’s aspirations
Sanjeev Pargal
JAMMU, Mar 14: The Central Government today revoked the detention of climate activist Sonam Wangchuk under National Security Act (NSA) and said it was hopeful that the issues concerning the Union Territory of Ladakh will be resolved through constructive engagement and dialogue including through the mechanism of the High Powered Committee (HPC) as well as other appropriate platforms.
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In another development, newly appointed Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh VK Saxena, who took oath of office yesterday, invited Leh Apex Body (LAB) co-chairman Chering Dorjay Lakruk for a meeting soon after the Centre quashed NSA slapped on Wangchuk and urged upon him to cancel March 16 protest rally called by the Apex Body as well as the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA).
Confirming development to the Excelsior, Lakruk said that he consulted the LAB and KDA leadership after returning from meeting the Lieutenant Governor but there was a unanimous view that messages have been flashed across the UT and the rallies in both Leh and Kargil can’t be postponed at this stage.
“Presently, we stand our decision to go ahead with march 16 rally,” Lakruk said.
An official statement issued this morning by the Union Ministry of Home Affairs while quashing detention of Sonam Wangchuk, 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.
The HPC is headed by Union Minister of State for Home Nityanand Rai and its last meeting was held in New Delhi on February 4. The LAB and KDA had in November last year submitted comprehensive document to the MHA seeking Statehood and Sixth Schedule status for Ladakh among other issues.
Wangchuk walked out of Jodhpur jail at 1.30 pm today.
“In the backdrop of the serious law and order situation that arose in the peace-loving town of Leh on September 24, 2025, Sonam Wangchuk was detained on September 26 under the provisions of the National Security Act (NSA) pursuant to an order issued by the District Magistrate, Leh, with a view to maintaining public order. He has already undergone nearly half of the period of detention under the said Act,” the MHA statement said.
“The Government remains committed to fostering an environment of peace, stability, and mutual trust in Ladakh so as to facilitate constructive and meaningful dialogue with all stakeholders. In furtherance of this objective, and after due consideration, the Government has decided to revoke the detention of Sonam Wangchuk with immediate effect by exercising the powers available under the National Security Act,” the statement read…
The Government, it added, has been actively engaging with various stakeholders and community leaders in Ladakh with a view to addressing the aspirations and concerns of the people of the region. However, the prevailing atmosphere of bandhs and protests has been detrimental to the peace-loving character of the society and has adversely affected various sections of the community, including students, job aspirants, businesses, tour operators and tourists and overall economy, the statement issued this morning, read.
The Centre decision comes days after the Supreme Court on Tuesday adjourned the hearing on a plea filed by the Wangchuk’s wife, Gitanjali J Angmo, challenging his detention to March 17.
Wangchuk was detained on September 26, 2025, two days after the 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.
Following detentions, he was transferred to Jodhpur prison.
Two days ago, Wangchuk said in a post on X that a just future for Ladakh would require sincere dialogue.
“I have not stepped away from activism. My commitment to Ladakh remains unchanged. But activism must serve a larger purpose: a just, lasting future for Ladakh. It will require clarity, unity, and sincere dialogue.
“Our struggle has always been for Ladakh’s protection, dignity, and long-term wellbeing and shall continue to be!!” he had said.
Meanwhile, soon after the NSA detention of Wangchuk was quashed, Ladakh Lt Governor VK Saxena welcomed the Central Government’s decision terming it a positive step for the region.
All the same, Saxena said there is “no space for agitation” and violence in the Union territory, and suggested dialogue as a means to resolve the issues.
Saxena termed the Centre’s move a “positive step”, according to a statement issued by the Lok Bhavan of Ladakh.
“Ladakh has always been known for the patriotic spirit, nationalism, and peaceful nature of its people,” he said.
Saxena said all issues can be resolved amicably through dialogue and mutual understanding.
“There is no place for agitation, bandhs, or violence in Ladakh. Such actions do not contribute to meaningful progress. Instead, the path of cooperation and peaceful engagement should be followed to achieve lasting solutions,” he said.
Saxena expressed his hope that with the continued support and cooperation of the people of Ladakh, the Union Territory would witness sustained peace and accelerated development.
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