Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk was released from Jodhpur Central Jail on Saturday after the Union government revoked his detention order under the National Security Act (NSA) with immediate effect.
Wangchuk was detained on September 26 last year under the NSA pursuant to an order issued by the Leh district magistrate. He has already undergone nearly half of the detention period stipulated under the Act.
According to reports, Wangchuk was released at around 1.30 pm following the Centre’s decision. The formalities were competed by Wangchuk’s wife, Geetanjali Angmo.
Wangchuk was detained two days after protests over demands for statehood for Ladakh and its inclusion under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution rocked Leh. The protest led to injuries to more than 45 civilians and 22 policemen. He was subsequently transferred to Jodhpur prison.
Earlier today, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) announced that it has revoked his detention under the NSA.
“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 Ministry said.
Also Read: Supreme Court defers hearing on plea challenging Sonam Wangchuk’s NSA detention to January 7
Meanwhile, Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, Vinai Kumar Saxena welcomed the Centre’s decision to revoke the detention of Sonam Wangchuk. The Office of the lieutenant governor of Ladakh said that Vinai Kumar Saxena welcomed the Centre’s decision to release Wangchuk and added there is no space for agitation and violence in Ladakh.
In a post on X, the LG’s office said, “Shri Saxena maintained that there is no space for agitation and violence in #Ladakh and all issues pertaining to the aspirations and concerns of the people, would be addressed through dialogue with various stakeholders, community leaders and citizens in #Ladakh.”
