New Delhi: In a notable confrontation between state authorities and political leaders, Delhi Chief Minister Atishi was denied access to meet detained Ladakh-based climate activist Sonam Wangchuk at Bawana Police Station today. Wangchuk, known for his environmental and regional advocacy, was recently detained by police.
According to Kashmir Media Service, Wangchuk had been leading the ‘Delhi Chalo’ march from Leh to the capital, aiming to press for the inclusion of Ladakh in the Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution and to protect the region’s land and identity. His detention occurred on Monday night as he and his fellow activists approached Delhi.
Chief Minister Atishi’s attempt to visit Wangchuk was thwarted by police, sparking a strong rebuke from her towards the Modi government. Speaking to the media outside the police station, she questioned the justification behind Wangchuk’s arrest, arguing that his actions were a legitimate exercise of democratic rights. Atishi expressed her support for Wangchuk’s advocacy for Ladakh’s statehood and criticized the BJP’s approach as authoritarian, suggesting it impairs the operation of elected governments.
Atishi also took to X, a social media platform, to voice her concerns, stating that Wangchuk and 150 Ladakhi activists were arrested while peacefully marching to Delhi. She labeled the incident as an act of dictatorship.
Echoing Atishi’s sentiments, AAP leader Arvind Kejriwal commented on X about the frequent barriers erected against individuals attempting to enter Delhi, questioning whether the capital was private property. He underscored that Delhi, as the national capital, should be open to all, criticizing the government’s fear of unarmed, peaceful protesters.