Activist Sonam Wangchuk, presently detained in Jodhpur Central Jail, has issued a demand for an independent judicial inquiry into the deaths of four people during the Leh protests. He has also stated that he is prepared to remain in prison until his demand is met. Wangchuk was arrested by Leh police on September 26 and charged under the stringent National Security Act (NSA) for allegedly inciting protesters who were demanding statehood for the Union Territory, which started on September 24.
Sajjad Kargili, leader of the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA), shared Wangchuk’s message via X, which was conveyed through his elder brother, Ka Tsetan Dorjey Ley, and advocate Mustafa Haji, who visited him in jail on October 4.
In his message, Wangchuk reported that he is in good condition, both physically and mentally, and expressed his gratitude for the support and prayers he has received. He offered condolences to the families of the deceased and prayers for the injured and those arrested. Wangchuk’s primary message focused on the necessity of an independent judicial inquiry into the killing of the four protesters. He asserted his willingness to remain in jail until this inquiry is initiated.
Furthermore, he reiterated his support for the Apex Body and the KDA in their pursuit of Sixth Schedule status and statehood for Ladakh. Wangchuk stated his unwavering support for the Apex Body, the KDA, and the people of Ladakh, in their legitimate constitutional demand for the Sixth Schedule and Statehood, pledging to stand wholeheartedly with any actions taken by the Apex Body in the interest of Ladakh. This message was shared in an X post by Kargili.
Kargili wrote: “Sonam Wangchuk’s message from Central Jail, Jodhpur. Today on the 4th of October Ka Tsetan Dorjey Ley (Sonam Wangchuk’s elder brother) and advocate Mustafa Haji met Mr. Sonam Wangchuk at Jodhpur Central Jail. Mr. Sonam has conveyed the following message to the people of Ladakh and India.”