Leh/Alive News: Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk has claimed that he has been placed under house arrest in Leh, with more than 25 police and paramilitary personnel deployed outside his residence. In a video released late Thursday night, Wangchuk said security personnel were not allowing him to leave his house.
However, Ladakh Police denied that he was under house arrest and said the restrictions were part of prohibitory orders imposed during the election period.
A day earlier, police had removed Wangchuk from his protest site and taken him home. An order has also barred him from entering or leaving Leh for 60 days.
Wangchuk said he would challenge the restrictions before the magistrate, High Court and Supreme Court, arguing that he should be allowed to participate in peaceful protests.
Why Are Ladakh Residents Opposing December Elections?
Wangchuk and several local organisations are opposing the December 4 hill council elections. They want the polls postponed until April or May 2027.
One major concern is the extreme winter weather, when temperatures can fall to minus 15 to minus 25 degrees Celsius. Many residents migrate to Jammu and Delhi during this period, raising concerns about voter participation.
There is also opposition to the delimitation of 100 constituencies. Local groups have questioned the process, alleging that seats were allocated without proper consultation.
Wangchuk Demands Inquiry Report
Wangchuk also demanded the release of the Commission of Inquiry report into the September 24 incident last year. He alleged that the matter was being suppressed and said protests would continue until their demands were addressed.
Eight Hill Councils to Be Formed
The December 4 election will be held to form autonomous hill councils in Ladakh’s eight districts. Earlier, the region had two councils, in Leh and Kargil. Counting is scheduled for December 8.
