Climate Activist Sonam Wangchuk Released from NSA Detention After Nearly Six Months

Rare Use of Section 14 Clause

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) announced on Saturday that they have decided to lift Wangchuk’s detention under the NSA “with immediate effect” after careful consideration.
This decision follows the MHA's use of Section 14 of the NSA, a clause that has never been invoked for any detainee before. The ministry stated that Wangchuk has already served a significant portion of his detention, which began on September 26, 2025. 

Commitment to Ladakh Peace Dialogue

In its advisory, the MHA emphasized its ongoing commitment to fostering peace, stability, and mutual trust within Ladakh , aiming for meaningful dialogue with various stakeholders. By revoking the NSA order against Wangchuk, the ministry hopes to contribute to this goal. They noted that his detention was initially aimed at maintaining public order in response to unrest that erupted in the peaceful town of Leh on September 24, 2025.

Wife's Petition Challenges Detention

Wangchuk’s release comes just ahead of a Supreme Court hearing on a petition filed by his wife, Gitanjali J. Angmo, challenging the NSA order. Additionally, civil society groups are preparing for a protest on March 16 in Leh and Kargil, advocating for constitutional protections for the Union Territory. The Leh Apex Body (LAB) and the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA) have also confirmed their participation in this demonstration.

Wangchuk's Hunger Strike For Regional Rights

The backdrop to this release includes a tragic incident during Wangchuk's fifth hunger strike in five years, which was aimed at drawing attention to the need for constitutional assurances for regional rights. The strike, which he began with 15 others, turned violent on its 15th day, resulting in the deaths of at least four individuals, including a Kargil war veteran, and leaving 160 others injured.