The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has strongly condemned the arrest of social activist Sonam Wangchuk, with protests taking place in Delhi and Ladakh. A candlelight march was organized in Delhi on Friday evening, led by AAP’s Delhi state convener, Saurabh Bharadwaj. The march saw significant participation. Bharadwaj referred to Sonam Wangchuk’s fame, and highlighted his dedication to social service in Ladakh, with emphasis on his efforts in providing education. He noted the historical stance of the people of Ladakh and Kargil against Chinese incursions and their willingness to defend their territory. The AAP is standing with the people of Ladakh.
Sanjay Singh, a senior AAP leader and Rajya Sabha member, sharply criticized the central government over Sonam Wangchuk’s arrest. Singh characterized the arrest under the National Security Act as a display of authoritarianism. He explained that Wangchuk was advocating for the rights of the people through Gandhian means. Wangchuk sought full statehood, education, healthcare, and employment opportunities. Singh stated that the Modi government is acting in desperation. He urged the government to listen to the people of Ladakh and give them full statehood.
Sanjay Singh also said that Sonam Wangchuk was arrested on Friday. Sonam Wangchuk has been working to give education to the children. He has dedicated his life to these children and has been demanding rights under the Sixth Schedule, for Ladakh and Kargil, including demands for education, employment, land, healthcare and full statehood.