Townhall Times | New Delhi | September 26, 2025
The arrest of Sonam Wangchuk under the National Security Act (NSA) has triggered strong political reactions across the country. Calling the government’s move unjust, Samajwadi Party MP Javed Ali Khan has come out in open support of the Ladakhi educationist and environmentalist.
Writing in an emotional tone on Social media , Khan said:
“Wangchuk is a responsible, peace-loving, and non-violent activist. The government is falsely accusing him to cover up its own failures in Ladakh.”
Wangchuk, who inspired the famous character in the Bollywood film 3 Idiots, has dedicated his life to promoting science-based education, sustainable development, and environmental conservation in Ladakh. His arrest comes just days after clashes in the region left four civilians dead and more than 90 injured.
Critics argue that the government’s crackdown is an attempt to silence dissent. The administration has also revoked the FCRA license of Wangchuk’s NGO, SECMOL, and canceled land leased to his Himalayan Institute of Alternatives (HIAL).
Meanwhile, Ladakh remains under curfew with internet services suspended. Social media campaigns such as #ReleaseSonamWangchuk continue to trend, as locals insist that his detention is an attack on the region’s democratic aspirations.
Opposition leaders, including Omar Abdullah, Farooq Abdullah, and Mehbooba Mufti, have condemned the arrest, urging the central government to engage in dialogue instead of resorting to repression.
For many, Wangchuk’s detention is not just about one man. It symbolizes a larger fight for Ladakh’s identity, environmental protection, and democratic rights.
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