Leh: In a strong show of dissent, a complete shutdown was observed across Ladakh today following the arrest of prominent climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, Indian parliament member Mohammad Hanifa Jan, and around 120 others at the Delhi border as they attempted to march to the Indian capital.
According to Kashmir Media Service, the shutdown, which brought daily activities to a halt in both the Kargil and Leh districts, was organized by the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA) and the Leh Apex Body (LAB). These bodies called for the strike to protest against the detention of local leaders and activists, who have been vocal in advocating for Ladakh’s rights.
The detainees, including Wangchuk and Ladakh MP Mohammad Hanifa Jan, were part of a larger group participating in the ‘Delhi Chalo Padyatra’ that started in Leh a month ago. The march aimed to press for several critical demands, including statehood for Ladakh, inclusion under the Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution, and the establishment of more autonomous governance structures like a public service commission for the region.
In addition to disrupting the day-to-day life in the region, the arrests have stirred significant unrest among the local communities. The KDA issued a press statement condemning the detentions as a “blatant violation of fundamental rights to freedom of expression and assembly” and criticized the actions of the ruling government and Delhi Police as showing “disregard for our community’s voice.”
The All Kargil Students Association Delhi (AKSAD) also expressed its dismay, highlighting the peaceful nature of the march and the legitimacy of its demands, which include separate Lok Sabha seats for Leh and Kargil districts. The student body called on the Indian government to respect the democratic rights of the Ladakhi people and to engage meaningfully with their demands.
The situation remains tense as community leaders and activists continue to call for the release of the detainees and for a constructive dialogue with the government to address the longstanding issues facing the Ladakh region.