Sonam Wangchuk’s Wife Denies Allegations, Asserts Activist’s Commitment to Peaceful Advocacy

New Delhi/Leh, September 28, 2025: Gitanjali Angmo, wife of detained climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, has categorically denied claims linking him to Pakistan or any financial misconduct, calling the accusations “baseless” and politically motivated.

Speaking to PTI, Angmo emphasised that Wangchuk, held under the stringent National Security Act (NSA) following violent protests in Leh on September 24, has consistently pursued Ladakh’s interests through non-violent, Gandhian methods. The protests left four dead and around 90 injured. “Sonam has never posed a threat to public order. His advocacy has always been peaceful,” she said.

Wangchuk, a prominent voice in the five-year campaign for Sixth Schedule status and eventual statehood for Ladakh, has been transferred to Jodhpur jail in Rajasthan. Angmo added that she has yet to receive a copy of his detention order despite repeated assurances.

Addressing allegations of Pakistani influence, Angmo clarified that Wangchuk’s international travel was strictly professional, focused on climate change. She cited his participation in UN-backed initiatives and a visit to Pakistan earlier this year for a climate conference organised by UN Pakistan and Dawn Media. “The glaciers of the Himalayas don’t check borders. Our work is entirely apolitical,” she asserted.

Angmo also refuted claims that Wangchuk incited the Leh violence, blaming CRPF action for escalating tensions. She said peaceful protesters reacted only after tear gas was deployed, and that his speech, described as provocative, was misrepresented. According to her, Wangchuk only expressed his commitment to Ladakh’s cause.

On the question of financial irregularities, Angmo defended the Himalayan Institute of Alternative Learning (HIAL), which she co-founded with Wangchuk. She explained that received funds were for technology consultancy, not foreign contributions, and highlighted HIAL’s free education for 400 students through initiatives such as ice stupas and solar-powered buildings. Administrative delays in UGC registration and land approvals, she said, should not be seen as misconduct.

Questioning the government’s stance branding Wangchuk as anti-national, Angmo said, “How can someone be anti-national while constructing shelters for the Indian Army and promoting local initiatives like boycotting Chinese products?”

Her comments follow the Union Home Ministry’s cancellation of the FCRA licence of Wangchuk’s earlier organisation, SECMOL, citing alleged discrepancies.