Ladakh, September 27, 2025: Ladakh Director-General of Police S.D. Singh Jamwal on Saturday confirmed that statehood activist Sonam Wangchuk is being investigated for alleged connections with Pakistan. The development follows last month’s arrest of a Pakistani intelligence operative accused of transmitting videos of Wangchuk’s protests across the border.
Wangchuk was detained under the National Security Act (NSA) on Friday and shifted to Jodhpur jail in Rajasthan. While refusing to disclose complete details, Jamwal said the probe is examining Wangchuk’s speeches and activities. “His profile and past are available in the public domain. Some of his speeches acted as provocation by referring to the Arab Spring and recent unrest in Nepal, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka,” he said.
The police chief also highlighted Wangchuk’s foreign visits, including participation in an event organized by The Dawn in Pakistan and a trip to Bangladesh, calling them suspicious.
Wangchuk has been at the forefront of the movement led by the Leh Apex Body and Kargil Democratic Alliance, pressing for Ladakh’s statehood and inclusion under the Sixth Schedule. Authorities allege he attempted to derail talks between the Centre and Ladakh leaders, with the next round scheduled for October 6.
Jamwal further said Wangchuk continued his hunger strike despite being aware of an informal dialogue planned for September 25. “A day before the meeting, provocative content was circulated, leading to violence and tragic deaths on Wednesday,” he added.
Police said three Nepali nationals were among those injured in the unrest. So far, 50 people have been detained, including six suspected ringleaders. Jamwal asserted that Wangchuk, described as the “main instigator,” was lodged outside Ladakh to maintain order.
The probe also involves scrutiny of alleged foreign funding and possible violations of the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA).
Ladakh Activist Sonam Wangchuk Under Probe for Alleged Pakistan Links, Detained Under NSA
