Prominent Ladakh-based climate activist Sonam Wangchuk returned to Leh on Sunday to a warm public reception after spending nearly six months in detention under the National Security Act (NSA).
Wangchuk had been lodged in Jodhpur Central Jail since September 26, 2025. His release came after the Union Government revoked his detention order ahead of a scheduled hearing in the Supreme Court of India.
Thousands of people gathered at the NDS Stadium in Leh to welcome him back. The reception was organised following a call by the Leh Apex Body (LAB) and other local groups. Wangchuk was accompanied by his wife, Gitanjali J Angmo.
Wangchuk had been detained after protests erupted in Leh last year demanding statehood for Ladakh and its inclusion under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution. The protests later turned violent, leaving four people dead and nearly 100 others injured. Authorities had alleged that provocative statements had contributed to the unrest, a charge that formed part of the basis for his detention.
Addressing the gathering after his return, Wangchuk expressed hope for the future of the movement and emphasised the need for unity. “I am feeling very good. After 170 days, returning to these mountains and meeting people again, I hope a new dawn will come for the cause we are working for,” he said.
He also thanked people across India for their support during his detention and called for dialogue and collective efforts to address Ladakh’s concerns.
