Sonam Wangchuk Detained Under Prohibitory Orders in 'Delhi Chalo' March for Ladakh's Sixth Schedule Status

Oct 1, 2024, 04:38 AM

Climate activist and education reformer Sonam Wangchuk, who began a 'Delhi Chalo' march from Ladakh on September 1, was detained along with over 120 others by Delhi Police at the Singhu border for allegedly violating prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS). The activists were peacefully marching towards Delhi to demand inclusion of Ladakh under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution, seeking environmental and constitutional rights for the Union Territory. The detainees, including Ladakh MP Haji Hanifa Jan and leaders from Apex Body, Leh (ABL) and Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA), were taken to Narela and Bawana Police Stations, where they have launched an indefinite fast. Reports indicate that lawyers were not allowed to meet Wangchuk to obtain his signature on a court petition. The detention has sparked widespread condemnation from political leaders, including Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, who called the action "unacceptable," and members of the Aam Aadmi Party. In response to the detentions, a bandh has been called in Ladakh by local organizations, and protests have erupted demanding the release of the detained activists.