Sonam Wangchuk, a prominent activist from Ladakh, was arrested by Leh Police on Friday amid ongoing unrest that has resulted in four fatalities and over 90 injuries. The protests, driven by demands for full statehood status for Ladakh and inclusion under the Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution, have been organised by Wangchuk along with the Leh Apex Body and the Kargil Democratic Alliance.

Earlier this month, Wangchuk undertook a hunger strike beginning September 10 to amplify these demands. After fasting for 15 days, he called off the strike on September 24, citing concerns about the surge in violence during the protests.

In a parallel move, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) revoked the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA) license of Wangchuk’s organisation, the Students Educational and Cultural Movement of Ladakh (SECMOL). This cancellation means that SECMOL, based in Leh, can no longer legally receive or use funds from foreign sources, reported CNN-News18.

Wangchuk Arrested, SECMOL’s FCRA License Suspended

Wangchuk’s arrest came just a day following the suspension of SECMOL’s FCRA license, signaling a tightening of government measures amid the disturbances. The ongoing demonstrations have brought national attention to the calls for greater political autonomy and safeguarding of Ladakh’s cultural heritage.

Officials are actively working to quell the unrest after clashes broke out during the agitation, which have led to multiple casualties and significant injuries.