Ladakh’s Director General of Police (DGP) S D Singh Jamwal revealed that Sonam Wangchuk faces investigation for suspected connections with Pakistan. This follows the recent arrest of a Pakistani intelligence operative, who allegedly disseminated videos of Wangchuk’s protests across the border. The situation has escalated following violence in Ladakh, which tragically resulted in four fatalities and numerous injuries.
On Friday, police authorities detained Wangchuk under the stringent National Security Act and transferred him to a jail in Jodhpur, Rajasthan. The DGP stated, “What has been found in the investigation cannot be disclosed at this moment. The process is ongoing, but Wangchuk’s public persona—exposed extensively through his YouTube profiles—demonstrates a history that raises concerns. His speeches have incited unrest, often referencing the Arab Spring and civil disturbances in Nepal, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka.”
Furthermore, Jamwal underlined that suspicions linger around Wangchuk’s foreign visits, describing them as alarming. “He attended an event organized by The Dawn in Pakistan and made a visit to Bangladesh. This pattern raises significant concerns regarding potential foreign intervention,” he added.
Wangchuk has emerged as a prominent spokesperson for the Leh Apex Body and Kargil Democratic Alliance, advocating for greater statehood and the extension of the Sixth Schedule in the Union Territory. However, Jamwal criticized his actions during a crucial period, saying, “He tried to hijack the platform and disrupt the dialogue between the Centre and local representatives.” This dialogue is crucial, as the Centre has scheduled fresh talks with leaders on October 6.
Despite knowing about an upcoming informal meeting on September 25, Wangchuk maintained his hunger strike. Jamwal noted, “Just a day before the informal meeting, there was a clear attempt to destabilize the peaceful atmosphere with provocative videos and statements, leading to the unfortunate violence witnessed on Wednesday.”
In addition to Wangchuk’s case, DGP Jamwal provided details on other aspects of the unrest. He mentioned that three Nepali nationals were hospitalized with bullet wounds, suggesting the possibility of a broader conspiracy. To date, police have apprehended around 50 individuals related to the violence. Among these, at least six are believed to be ringleaders of the unrest.
Addressing Lt Governor Kavinder Gupta’s comments on potential foreign conspiracies connected to Wednesday’s events, Jamwal stated, “The involvement of external parties is under investigation. We are piecing together the incidents to provide a clearer picture of the unrest.”
This investigation, centering on Sonam Wangchuk and the related violence, has stirred intense public interest and concern within Ladakh, as the authorities seek to restore safety and peace in the region amidst heightened tensions.
