Leh DM Defends Sonam Wangchuk’s Detention, Cites ‘Activities Prejudicial to State Security’

By A Staff Reporter.

The Leh District Magistrate has informed the Supreme Court that climate activist and education reformer Sonam Wangchuk was detained under the National Security Act (NSA) for engaging in activities “prejudicial to the security of the state, maintenance of public order and essential services.”

In an affidavit defending the detention order, the administration claimed that Wangchuk’s conduct during recent protests in Ladakh “had the potential to disrupt peace and harmony” in the region. The District Magistrate maintained that the decision to invoke the NSA was taken “after careful consideration of inputs” from law enforcement and intelligence agencies.

Wangchuk, known for his environmental advocacy and campaigns for Ladakh’s ecological protection, was taken into preventive custody earlier this year amid demonstrations demanding statehood and constitutional safeguards under the Sixth Schedule. His detention drew widespread criticism from activists, politicians, and civil society groups across the country.